Orofacial Myofunctional therapy
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Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT)
At Pediaprogress, our team of licensed speech-language pathologists specializes in the evaluation and treatment of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) in children. Using evidence-based practices, we help children overcome the underlying muscular and functional challenges that affect breathing, eating, and speaking.
The goal of orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is to retrain the muscles of the face and mouth to support healthy, lasting habits. Therapy focuses on improving:
- Oral rest posture
- Chewing and swallowing patterns
- Nasal breathing
- Speech production
Through a personalized and supportive approach, we guide each child toward improved function, comfort, and confidence in daily life.
Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD)
Signs of OMDs
Causes of OMDs
Causes of OMDs
Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) often present with subtle or noticeable signs that affect facial muscle function, oral habits, and overall orofacial development. These signs may impact speech, breathing, chewing, and swallowing.
Mouth Breathing
Habitual breathing through the mouth instead of the nose, even when not congested. Lips are often open at rest.
Low or Forward Tongue Posture
Tongue rests low in the mouth or against the front teeth, instead of on the roof of the mouth. May interfere with proper jaw and palate development.
Speech Articulation Issues
Difficulty producing certain sounds, such as /s/, /z/, /t/, /d/, /n/, or /l/. Lisping or speech distortions due to improper tongue positioning.
Tongue Thrust
Tongue thrust occurs when the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth during swallowing, speaking, or even at rest. Tongue thrust is often a result of dental malocclusions.
Prolonged Oral Habits
Thumb or finger sucking beyond the age of 2 years. Extended pacifier or bottle use beyond infancy. Nail biting, lip licking, or chewing on objects.
Drooling or Poor Lip Seal
Due to inability to keep lips closed at rest. Frequent drooling, especially past toddler years.
Feeding and Swallowing Difficulties
Messy eating or difficulty chewing and swallowing. Gagging or choking on certain textures, picky eating or food aversions.
Facial Appearance and Muscle Tone
Long, narrow face or underdeveloped jaws. Dark circles under the eyes - often associated with mouth breathing.
Causes of OMDs
Causes of OMDs
Causes of OMDs
Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) can develop due to a variety of factors, including:
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia)
A tight or short lingual frenulum can restrict tongue movement, affecting speech, swallowing, and oral rest posture.
Mouth breathing
Often caused by allergies, enlarged tonsils/adenoids, or nasal obstructions, chronic mouth breathing can alter facial muscle patterns and tongue positioning.
High or narrow palate
This can affect tongue placement and breathing.
Dental malocclusions
Misaligned teeth or jaw structures, such as open bite, can lead to abnormal tongue positioning or oral habits.
Thumb sucking or pacifier use
Extended use beyond infancy can contribute to tongue thrusting, open bites, and improper oral posture.
Delayed motor development
Children with delayed oral motor skills may struggle with proper tongue and lip movements.
Neuromuscular conditions
Disorders like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy can affect facial and oral muscle coordination.
Poor Oral Posture
Incorrect resting posture of the tongue (e.g., low or forward instead of on the roof of the mouth) and lips (open rather than closed) can disrupt normal orofacial development over time.
Genetics and Family History
Some structural traits and muscle patterns may be inherited, making some individuals more prone to developing OMDs.