Curious about myofunctional therapy? You’re not alone. Many patients ask our Oak Park dentist what this therapy is and how it helps with oral health.
Do you or your child have difficulty chewing, breathing, swallowing, or speaking? If so, myofunctional therapy may be right for you! Learn more about this therapy and your candidacy for it with Dr. Thomas W. Wegner and his team at Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL. Getting started is easy – just call our Oak Park dentist at (708) 383-0330 to request a consultation!
In today’s post, we have our Oak Park dentist explain what myofunctional therapy is and why you might need it.
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a type of physical therapy designed specifically for the muscles of the face, mouth, throat, and tongue. It helps improve breathing, swallowing, speaking, and chewing. The goal is to retrain the muscles to work the right way.
Why Do People Need It?
Sometimes, the muscles in your face or mouth don’t function as they should. This can cause problems like:
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring or sleep apnea
- Speech issues
- Trouble swallowing
- Jaw pain
- Crooked teeth
If you or your child have these concerns, our Oak Park dentist might suggest myofunctional therapy.
How Does It Work?
Myofunctional therapy involves simple exercises. These exercises train the tongue and other muscles to rest and move in healthy ways. For example, one exercise might teach you to keep your tongue on the roof of your mouth instead of pushing against your teeth.
While our Oak Park dentist may teach you some exercises while you’re in the office, it’s more likely that they will refer you to a trained myofunctional therapist.
Who Can Benefit?
People of all ages can benefit from myofunctional therapy, including:
- Children with speech or bite issues
- Adults with sleep apnea (click here to read about myofunctional therapy and OSA)
- People who grind their teeth
- Tongue thrusters and thumb suckers
- Anyone who breathes through their mouth
- Patients undergoing or completing orthodontic treatment
Signs You Might Need It
Here are some signs that might mean you could benefit from myofunctional therapy:
- Snoring or gasping during sleep
- Lips that remain open at resting
- A low or forward tongue posture
- Difficulty making certain speech sounds
- Teeth shifting after braces
If you notice any of these signs, talk to your Oak Park dentist.
What Are the Benefits?
The benefits of myofunctional therapy go beyond the mouth. Patients often report:
- Better sleep
- Fewer headaches
- Improved posture
- Clearer speech
- Healthier gums and teeth
And since it’s non-invasive, it’s a safe and gentle option. Your Oak Park dentist can guide you through the process.
Learn More About Myofunctional Therapy with an Oak Park Dentist
Myofunctional therapy might sound complex, but it’s really about helping your mouth and face muscles do their jobs well. If you’re dealing with sleep issues, speech problems, or bite concerns, it could be a helpful tool.
Want to see if you’re a good candidate for myofunctional therapy? Click here to request an appointment with an Oak Park dentist, or call Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL, at (708) 383-0330 for more information.