OMD Therapy
What to Expect
Orofacial Myology treatment usually consists of a team approach that may include general dentists, orthodontists, pedodontists, oral surgeons, periodontists, allergists, ear, nose & throat specialists, pediatricians, sleep medicine specialists, speech-language pathologists, and most importantly – the parent or caregiver.
Therapy is available and encouraged for both children and adults. We provide evaluations, tongue & lip tie assessments, and appropriate referrals for treatment when necessary.
Orofacial Myology Therapy Steps
What are the indications for myofunctional therapy?
The primary goal is to recapture a normal freeway space (the space between the upper and lower teeth). Tongue thrust (incorrect tongue resting posture), thumb/finger sucking, pacifier habit, open mouth rest posture, mouth breathing, drooling, poor table manners, lack of muscle tone in face and lips, helping to resolve harmful habits to promote proper growth and development and restore proper tongue and lip resting postures.
What does therapy consist of and how long does it take?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is provided by a trained/Certified Orofacial Myologist. Sessions will consist of photos, measurements, and exercises. Instructions are given for exercises to be done at home and performed two or three times per day. Therapy may consist of several phases. Therapy may be achieved in a short time period or it may take months to correct each individual’s needs.
How does patient/parent participation affect treatment outcomes?
The patient and parent/guardian must understand that progress and results can be delayed if there is a lack of commitment and daily participation. An open airway must be established for proper results, this may include referral to other specialists prior to treatment.