SLEEP SOUND INSTITUTE

Proper oral function is essential for overall health, especially for developing children. At Sleep Sound Institute, we believe in early intervention and preventative care to help patients of all ages develop and maintain healthy breathing patterns, proper oral rest posture, and functional swallowing habits before they lead to more serious issues.

What Is Oral Myofunctional Therapy?

Oral Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a specialized program of exercises and techniques designed to correct improper function of the tongue, lips, jaw, and facial muscles. These exercises retrain the oral and facial muscles to function properly during swallowing, speaking, and even while at rest.

This therapy addresses the underlying causes of many breathing and developmental issues, making it an excellent preventative measure before more invasive treatments become necessary. While particularly beneficial for children whose oral structures are still developing, OMT can help patients of all ages improve their breathing, sleeping, and overall quality of life.

Signs That Oral Myofunctional Therapy Might Be Beneficial

Children and adults may benefit from OMT if they experience:

• Mouth breathing (especially during sleep or at rest)
• Tongue thrust or improper tongue positioning
• Difficulty with speech or certain speech sounds
• Chronic open-mouth posture
• Snoring or restless sleep
• Chronic allergies or nasal congestion
• Forward head posture
• Difficulty with breastfeeding (in infants)
• Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

Early identification of these patterns is key. When addressed in childhood, many potential long-term issues can be prevented entirely.

The Long-Term Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy

Proper oral function established early in life can prevent numerous health issues, including:

• Sleep-disordered breathing and potential sleep apnea
• Dental malocclusions and orthodontic problems
• Facial growth and development issues
• TMJ disorders and chronic facial pain
• Persistent speech difficulties
• Behavioral issues related to poor sleep quality
• Digestive problems from improper chewing and swallowing

At Sleep Sound Institute, we take a comprehensive approach to myofunctional therapy. Our program typically includes:

1. A Thorough Assessment

We begin with a detailed evaluation of oral function, breathing patterns, facial structure, and developmental history. For children, we consider growth patterns and milestones. For adults, we assess long-standing habits that may be contributing to current issues.

2. A Customized Therapy Plan

Based on your assessment, we develop a personalized therapy program that may include:

• Exercises to strengthen oral and facial muscles
• Techniques to establish proper tongue resting position
• Breathing retraining to promote nasal breathing
• Strategies to eliminate harmful oral habits
• Age-appropriate activities that make therapy engaging and effective

3. Collaborative Care

We believe in a team approach and often work in conjunction with:

• Pediatricians and family physicians
• ENT specialists (for airway concerns)
• Orthodontists and dentists
• Speech-language pathologists
• Lactation consultants (for infants)

4. Patient and Family Education

We empower patients and families with knowledge about:

• The importance of proper oral function
• How breathing affects overall development and health
• Techniques to practice at home to reinforce therapy
• Environmental modifications that support proper breathing and oral posture

Remember, early intervention with myofunctional therapy can often prevent the need for more invasive treatments later in life. Our goal is to help patients develop proper function now to avoid sleep-disordered breathing and other complications in the future.

Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and learn how myofunctional therapy can benefit you or your child's development, breathing, and overall health.