Myofunctional Therapy (MT), also known as Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT), is a therapeutic approach involving a structured regimen of exercises for the muscles of the mouth and face. This specialized “physical therapy” for the orofacial complex corrects functional disorders affecting basic actions like breathing, swallowing, and speaking. It targets atypical muscle patterns, known as orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs). The validity of MT rests on scientific evidence demonstrating its ability to re-educate these muscle groups and produce lasting physiological changes. This analysis assesses the mechanisms, applications, and clinical data supporting its efficacy.
The Mechanisms of Orofacial Muscle Re-education
MT operates on the principle of neuromuscular re-education, helping the brain, nerves, and muscles restore optimal movement patterns. Exercises establish a proper oral rest posture, which is foundational to success. This position involves sealed lips and the tongue lightly suctioned to the roof of the mouth, behind the front teeth.
A primary focus is eliminating the atypical swallowing pattern often called a “tongue thrust.” During a tongue thrust, the tongue pushes against or between the teeth, exerting adverse pressure on dental structures. MT uses specific exercises for the tongue, lips, and jaw to build strength and muscle memory, redirecting the force of the swallow. Successful re-education establishes consistent nasal breathing, improves the lip seal, and ensures the tongue remains in its correct resting position.
Conditions Targeted by Myofunctional Therapy
MT is applied across a wide range of orofacial myofunctional disorders that impact function and development. A common application is correcting the tongue thrust swallow, which contributes to malocclusion and orthodontic issues like an open bite. By normalizing the swallowing mechanics, MT provides a stable muscular environment for the teeth and jaw.
MT also addresses speech impediments, particularly those involving the articulation of sibilant sounds (‘s’ and ‘z’) affected by incorrect tongue position. It is incorporated into the management of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, where exercises alleviate muscle tension and promote healthier jaw function, and involves sleep-disordered breathing, including habitual mouth breathing and the treatment of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Scientific Validation and Clinical Efficacy
The legitimacy of MT is supported by peer-reviewed literature, particularly in specific clinical areas. For patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), research has shown that oropharyngeal exercises, which are a core component of MT, can significantly reduce symptoms. A systematic review found strong evidence that MT positively reduces the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI)—a measure of sleep apnea severity—and decreases snoring. This positions MT as a viable, non-invasive treatment option, often used in conjunction with other therapies.
In the context of orthodontics, MT is commonly used to prevent relapse after braces or aligners are removed. The rationale is that correcting improper forces from a tongue thrust or poor resting posture helps maintain the dental correction. Clinical studies indicate that 70% to 80% of patients retain the corrected swallowing pattern and proper lingual resting posture years later. While some systematic reviews note a need for more high-quality randomized controlled trials, the existing evidence suggests a beneficial role for MT, especially when combined with orthodontic treatment.
Credentials and Professional Integration
Myofunctional therapy is typically provided by practitioners from established allied health professions, most commonly registered dental hygienists or speech-language pathologists. Practitioners operate within the scope of their existing licenses, as MT does not have a separate, regulated professional license. The training involves specialized continuing education courses offered by professional bodies.
While certification is not legally required to practice, many therapists pursue voluntary credentials from organizations like the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM) or the Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (AOMT). Certification involves coursework, examinations, and supervised practice to demonstrate clinical competency. Treatment often requires a team approach, integrating the therapist with specialists such as orthodontists, dentists, ENT physicians, and sleep specialists for comprehensive care.