Myofunctional Therapy Near You
Every system within our bodies works together to help us communicate with those around us and live happily. When one such system isn’t functioning correctly, it can lead to problems elsewhere.
One example is improperly developed orofacial muscles. This condition is known as OMD or orofacial myofunctional disorder. Not only can it contribute to sleep issues but dental ones as well. If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about this, please reach out to our dentists near you.
Defining Myofunctional Therapy
In simple terms, myofunctional therapy refers to unique exercises prescribed to patients to encourage healthy muscle movement in the face and around the mouth. The overall goal of this type of care is to enhance the strength and coordination of these systems through repetitive habit correction.
If you or a loved one are dealing with any of the following, it may be time to speak with a dentist in Edmonton:
- Narrow jaw
- Speech problems
- Loud or messy eating
- Malocclusion (misaligned teeth)
- Bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding)
At Avalon Dental, we are pleased to provide quality myofunctional therapy to those in need. Come in for an initial consultation today.
What Treatment Can Address
But what exactly does myofunctional therapy fix? Some of the most notable conditions are noted below:
- Tongue thrust
- Incorrect swallowing
- Lip or tongue tie
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking
- Jaw pain
- Snoring/sleep apnea
Types of Myofunctional Care
When you come into our local Edmonton practice, our qualified dentists will assess your facial area to determine the extent of care you need. Then, a detailed and customized treatment plan will be put together to reduce symptoms and get your muscles operating with ease.
Multiple exercises can be recommended, depending on the needs of the patients. Some of the most common ones include the following:
- Tongue presses: Pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth.
- Teeth touches: While keeping the tip of the tongue touching your front teeth, try pressing the back of the tongue pressed against the root of the mouth.
- Balloon inflation: Blow up a balloon with five breaths then deeply exhale into it.
- Yogurt suction: Sucking yogurt up through a straw
- Tongue touches: After pushing the tip of the tongue against the palate, slide the tongue backward.
Much research has found that myofunctional therapy is effective, especially in treating sleep disorders. However, it’s important to note that this is a process and takes both time and responsibility to ensure that the muscles are retrained to work correctly.
Our team at Avalon will be at your side the entire time to encourage you and help you feel comfortable. The oral health and well-being of every one of our patients matters to us. Please don’t hesitate to speak with us whenever you need assistance.
Set Up an Appointment Today
Call 780-465-0994 or email us at [email protected] to book a consultation and learn more about myofunctional therapy near you. We anticipate your visit very much.