Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a specialized program focused on the “neuromuscular re-education” of the muscles of the face, mouth, and neck. This therapeutic approach strengthens and re-patterns these soft tissues to ensure correct function during activities like breathing, chewing, and swallowing. The goal is to establish proper resting postures for the tongue, lips, and jaw, supporting the overall health and development of orofacial structures. OMT is delivered through customized exercises designed to improve muscle coordination and promote correct, habitual movement patterns.
Conditions Addressed by OMT
OMT targets Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs), which are atypical patterns of muscle function in the mouth and face that interfere with normal development. A common disorder is an improper swallowing pattern known as a tongue thrust, where the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth instead of resting against the palate. This constant force can contribute to dental misalignment, specifically an anterior open bite where the front teeth do not overlap when the jaw is closed.
A dysfunctional resting tongue posture is another primary concern, involving the tongue sitting low and forward instead of resting against the palate (roof of the mouth). This low posture often leads to habitual mouth breathing, or an open-mouth posture, even without nasal obstruction. Chronic mouth breathing can dry oral tissues, increase the risk of dental decay, and may be linked to developmental issues in the facial skeleton.
OMT also addresses speech articulation problems caused by poor muscle placement or coordination, such as a lisp or difficulty producing “s” and “z” sounds. The therapy is frequently used as a non-invasive treatment for sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, by strengthening upper airway muscles. It also helps manage symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) by encouraging a relaxed and balanced muscular environment.
The Mechanics of OMT Treatment
OMT involves an individualized treatment plan focused on re-training the orofacial muscles through targeted, repetitive exercises. The goal is to achieve an optimal oral rest posture: lips sealed, teeth slightly apart, and the tongue positioned entirely against the palate. This proper resting position serves as the foundation for correcting other functional issues, such as establishing consistent nasal breathing.
The exercises strengthen specific muscle groups (tongue, lips, and cheeks) and increase the patient’s awareness of their movements (proprioception). For instance, tongue strengthening exercises may involve lifting the tongue to the incisive papilla (the spot behind the upper front teeth) and holding that position. Lip seal training encourages the orbicularis oris muscle to maintain a closed lip posture, which supports proper dental alignment and breathing patterns.
A significant portion of the therapy corrects the swallowing pattern to eliminate tongue thrust. This is often accomplished using techniques that teach the tongue to move in a wave-like motion against the palate instead of pushing forward. These muscle re-education routines are practiced multiple times a day. The active phase of OMT usually spans several weeks to months, followed by a maintenance phase, reflecting the time needed to replace old habits with new, functional muscle memory.
Seeking OMT: Assessment and Practitioners
The initial step in pursuing OMT is a comprehensive assessment by a qualified professional to diagnose any existing myofunctional disorder. This evaluation includes observing the patient’s resting posture, analyzing breathing patterns, and examining the function and coordination of oral and facial muscles during chewing and swallowing. The assessment also considers the structure of the oral cavity, including tongue mobility and the condition of the jaw joint.
OMT is delivered by various healthcare professionals trained in orofacial myology, including speech-language pathologists (SLPs), registered dental hygienists (RDHs), and dentists. While a professional healthcare license is required, many practitioners seek additional certification through organizations like the International Association of Orofacial Myology to demonstrate expertise.
Effective OMT often requires an interdisciplinary approach, meaning the myofunctional therapist collaborates with other specialists. For example, they may work alongside orthodontists to ensure proper muscle function stabilizes dental corrections. They also collaborate with ear, nose, and throat (ENT) physicians to address structural airway obstructions contributing to mouth breathing. This collaborative model ensures all contributing factors are addressed for a complete and lasting resolution.