Orofacial Myotherapies, also known as orofacial myology or oromyology, refers to a branch of therapeutic practices that focuses on the treatment and management of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs). OMDs are structural, functional, or behavioral disorders associated with the muscles and functions of the mouth, face, and throat.
Orofacial Myotherapies employ a comprehensive approach to diagnose, prevent, and treat OMDs, aiming to optimize the functionality and balance of the orofacial complex. These therapies typically involve a range of exercises, techniques, and strategies to retrain and re-educate the muscles and functions of the orofacial area.
The interventions used in Orofacial Myotherapies are designed to address various conditions commonly associated with OMDs, such as improper swallowing patterns, incorrect tongue posture, speech difficulties, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), bruxism (teeth grinding), thumb or finger sucking habits, and distorted dental occlusion.
Orofacial Myotherapies are often implemented by specialized professionals, such as orofacial myologists, speech-language pathologists, or orofacial orthopedists. Treatment plans are customized to meet the specific needs of each individual, incorporating techniques like tongue exercises, lip strengthening exercises, swallowing retraining exercises, and breathing exercises.
The primary goal of Orofacial Myotherapies is to optimize orofacial muscle function and coordination. Through consistent therapy sessions, patients can develop improved orofacial habits, achieve proper dental occlusion, enhance speech clarity, alleviate pain or discomfort associated with TMD, and eliminate harmful oral habits. Regular home practice and follow-up assessments are integral components of the treatment process in order to ensure long
