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Myofunctional Disorders

What is a Myofunctional Disorder (OMD)

Children, teenagers, and adults may suffer from OMDs. OMDS interfere with normal growth and development of the muscles and bones of the face and mouth and can impact eating, talking, and breathing.

Key features of myofunctional disorders include:

  • Oral and Facial Muscle Imbalance: Improper functioning of muscles used for chewing, swallowing, and speaking can lead to issues with alignment and development.

  • Mouth Breathing: Many individuals with myofunctional disorders breathe through their mouths instead of their noses, which can lead to other health issues.

  • Tongue Positioning: The tongue may rest in an improper position, such as being pushed forward against the teeth, which can affect dental alignment and speech.

  • Difficulty with Swallowing: Individuals may struggle with swallowing, which can impact nutrition and overall health.

  • Impact on Speech: Speech clarity can be affected due to improper tongue and lip movements.

Symptoms:

  • Mouth breathing

  • Difficulty breathing through their nose

  • Limited tongue movement

  • Eating may be messy or difficult

  • An overbite, underbite, and/or other dental problems

  • The tongue pushing past the teeth

  • Difficulty saying some sounds like "s", "z","sh", "ch", and "j"

  • Drooling, especially beyond age 2

  • Difficulty closing the lips to swallow.

  • Tongue thrust
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Orthodontic Checkup

Our Boca Raton Pediatric Speech Therapists assess and treat myofunctional disorders.

 

If you would like to schedule your child for an evaluation please contact us here.

Treatment for myofunctional disorders often involves myofunctional therapy, which focuses on exercises and techniques to improve muscle function and coordination, ultimately promoting proper oral and facial development. Collaboration with dental and speech professionals is often beneficial in addressing these disorders.

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