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.

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.

How Long Does Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Take?

The length of therapy varies depending on the individual's functional patterns, goals, age, ability to participate and progress throughout treatment.

Some concerns may require a shorter program, while more complex functional patterns may require a longer period of therapy.

Following the Comprehensive Initial Evaluation, we will discuss the recommended treatment approach and expected program structure based on the individual's needs.

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.

Is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy the Same as Speech Therapy?

No. Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy and Speech-Language Therapy have different scopes of practice and areas of focus.

OMT focuses on orofacial function, including tongue posture, lip function, oral resting posture, swallowing, breathing patterns and oral muscle coordination.

Speech-language therapy focuses on communication, speech and language development and related concerns.

When appropriate, OMT and speech-language therapy may complement one another, and collaboration with a Speech-Language Pathologist may be recommended when speech concerns are present.

What Happens During an OMT Evaluation?

The Comprehensive Initial Evaluation includes a detailed review of relevant history and concerns, followed by an assessment of orofacial muscle function and coordination.

Depending on the individual's needs, the assessment may include tongue and lip function, resting posture, breathing patterns, swallowing, chewing, jaw function and other relevant orofacial patterns. Photos and videos may also be taken as part of the evaluation process.

Following your Comprehensive Initial Evaluation, we can provide an appropriate insurance claim form or supporting documentation for you to submit to your insurance provider to determine whether your plan provides coverage for OMT.

Coverage varies by insurance provider and individual plan.

Where Do You Provide Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

Back To Your Roots OMT is located in Cambridge, Ontario, where in-clinic evaluations and therapy sessions are available.

Online 1:1 Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is also available across Ontario when virtual therapy is appropriate for the individual's needs.

If you are unsure whether online therapy is suitable for you or your child, we can discuss this during the initial consultation.

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.

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.