Frequently Asked Questions:
→ I'm considering OMT—what do I need to know?

What Is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is an individualized form of neuromuscular re-education that focuses on the function, coordination and resting posture of the tongue, lips, jaw and facial muscles.

Therapy uses targeted exercises and activities to develop awareness, coordination, strength and endurance of the orofacial muscles and to establish more efficient functional patterns related to breathing, tongue posture, chewing, swallowing and speech-related oral function.

Why Haven't I Heard of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

Although Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy has been practiced for decades, it is still not routinely included in the education of every dental or healthcare professional. As a result, many patients and professionals may not encounter OMT until a specific functional concern leads to further assessment.

We offer a Mentoring Program and Resources for dental and healthcare professionals who want to learn more about Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders, recognize functional concerns and understand how OMT may be incorporated into patient care.

How Does Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Work?

OMT uses individualized exercises and activities to develop awareness, coordination, strength and endurance of the orofacial muscles and to establish more efficient functional patterns.

Depending on the individual's needs and assessment findings, therapy may address breathing, oral rest posture, tongue function, chewing, swallowing, speech-related oral function and jaw function.

Will My Benefits Cover Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

Following your comprehensive assessment, we provide a dental hygiene insurance claim form that you may submit to your insurance provider to determine whether your plan provides coverage for OMT.

Coverage varies by insurance provider and individual plan.

Who Can Benefit From Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

OMT may be appropriate for children and adults experiencing functional concerns involving breathing, oral rest posture, tongue function, chewing, swallowing, speech-related oral function or jaw function.

An assessment is required to determine whether Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is appropriate for an individual's specific concerns and goals.

What Age Can You Start Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

We provide Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy for children beginning at age 4 and for adults of all ages.

The appropriate timing for therapy depends on the individual's developmental stage, functional concerns, goals and ability to participate in therapy.

Our programs include options such as the Habit Elimination Program, Mini-Myo Program for children ages 4–6, Foundations Therapy Program and Enhanced Therapy Program.

Do You Work With Other Specialists?

Orofacial function can intersect with many areas of dental and healthcare. When appropriate, we collaborate with dentists, orthodontists, speech-language pathologists, physicians, ENTs, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals.

Working collaboratively allows concerns to be considered from multiple perspectives and can help support a coordinated approach to care.