Uses for Myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional therapy is much like physical therapy, but instead of exercising your arms and legs, you learn to exercise the muscles that support your face, mouth, and tongue. There are many applications for myofunctional therapy, including helping you sleep better at night. Your orthodontist in Solon, OH, can give you more information on the many ways this innovative therapy can improve your life.

Why Participate in Myofunctional Therapy?

This therapy consists of simple, repetitive exercises that help to develop the muscles that support breathing, swallowing, speaking, and more. In fact, it may be a useful treatment for a number of common disorders, including:

• Blocked nasal passages
• Open-mouthed breathing
• Speech disorders
• Tongue thrust
• Sleep-disordered breathing
• Eating dysfunction

Myofunctional therapy is often helpful for young children who have developed damaging oral habits, such as thrusting the tongue during swallowing. And it may help adults regain their normal eating ability following facial surgery.

What Kind of Exercises Are Required?

You won’t become winded performing myofunctional therapy exercises because you’re working out only the select group of muscles in and around your face. Your therapist may have you practice movements such as saying the vowel “A” in repetition or sucking yogurt through a very narrow straw. You might blow a birthday party horn repeatedly or practice blowing up a balloon a certain way. These are all exercises that move specific facial muscles, such as those required for swallowing, inhaling, exhaling, chewing, and speaking.

Myofunctional Therapy in Solon, OH

If you’re interested in exploring myofunctional therapy in Solon, OH, McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics may be able to help. Call today to schedule a convenient time to come in. One of our friendly and experienced clinicians will be happy to help you decide whether this treatment is right for you.