Orthodontics

Orthodontics and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there is more to consider than the position of the teeth. Oral function, tongue posture, breathing patterns and other orofacial factors may also be important considerations when planning and maintaining orthodontic treatment.

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy may be incorporated before, during or after orthodontic treatment when functional patterns are identified that may affect oral function or orthodontic stability.

The Tongue

The tongue plays an important role in oral function and interacts with the surrounding muscles and structures of the mouth and jaw. Its resting posture and function are also relevant to chewing, swallowing, speech and overall orofacial development.

An appropriate resting tongue posture provides functional contact with the palate and may contribute to the development and maintenance of balanced orofacial function.

When altered tongue posture, mouth breathing or functional restrictions are present, the tongue may not consistently maintain an appropriate resting position. These patterns can influence how the tongue, lips, jaw and surrounding muscles function together and may be relevant to orthodontic treatment and stability.

Tongue Thrust

A tongue thrust, also referred to as an atypical or anterior swallowing pattern, occurs when the tongue moves forward or otherwise functions differently from an efficient swallowing pattern.

Tongue thrusting can be associated with an altered resting tongue posture and may contribute to changes in dental alignment or orthodontic stability in some individuals.

Tongue thrusting is a functional pattern that may have several contributing factors, which is why a comprehensive assessment is important.

Addressing relevant orofacial functional patterns before, during or after orthodontic treatment may help establish more favorable functional habits and provide additional support for long-term oral and orthodontic goals.

"When should OMT be considered in relation to orthodontic treatment?"

Before orthodontics → identify functional patterns that may need attention
During orthodontics → support functional changes as treatment progresses
After orthodontics → support maintenance of appropriate oral function and habits

Low Tongue Posture

Low Tongue Posture

Tongue Thrust

Tongue Thrust

Protect Your Orthodontic Investment

A persistent tongue thrust or other atypical swallowing pattern may present challenges during orthodontic treatment and may be relevant to long-term orthodontic stability.

Some appliances are designed to discourage tongue thrusting or other oral habits. However, an appliance may not address all of the functional factors contributing to an atypical swallowing or resting pattern.

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy focuses on active neuromuscular learning, helping individuals develop awareness, coordination and more efficient functional patterns involving the tongue, lips, jaw and facial muscles. Therapy can be an effective approach for addressing tongue thrust and other atypical oral functional patterns and may be used alongside orthodontic treatment when appropriate.

Addressing relevant functional patterns before, during or after orthodontic treatment may provide additional support for orthodontic stability and long-term treatment goals. As an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist, I work collaboratively with orthodontists and other dental and healthcare professionals when appropriate to support a coordinated approach to care.

Protecting your orthodontic investment starts with understanding the functional factors that may influence your treatment.

Schedule an OMT Evaluation to determine whether Oroacial Myofunctional Therapy may be appropriate for you or your child. We can also help facilitate communication and collaboration with the other professionals involved in your care.