Pediatric Myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional therapy can help prevent orthodontic care or enhance it, by addressing the Root Cause of misalignment. ​The position of your teeth is not just determined by genetics or space; it's also shaped by the constant forces from the muscles of the tongue, lips, and cheeks. Improper habits, such as a low-resting tongue or a tongue thrust swallow, can exert consistent pressure on the teeth, pushing them out of alignment.

• ​Proper Tongue Posture: The most critical element is the tongue's resting position. A healthy tongue should rest entirely on the roof of the mouth, acting as a natural palate expander and an internal retainer for the upper jaw and teeth. When the tongue rests low on the floor of the mouth, it doesn't provide this support, and the cheeks can exert inward pressure on the teeth, leading to a narrow arch and crowded teeth. Myofunctional therapy retrains the tongue to rest in its proper position, creating a stable foundation for the teeth.
• Correcting Swallowing Patterns: A tongue thrust is a dysfunctional swallow pattern where the tongue pushes forward against the front teeth instead of against the roof of the mouth. The average person swallows hundreds of times a day, so this constant force can be powerful enough to push teeth out of alignment. Myofunctional therapy teaches the correct swallowing pattern, which helps stabilize the teeth and bite. ​Orthodontic treatment mechanically moves teeth into a new, straighter position. Myofunctional therapy complements this by creating a balanced muscular environment that supports the new alignment.
• Preparation for Orthodontics: When a patient undergoes myofunctional therapy before or during orthodontic treatment, it can make the process more efficient. By establishing proper muscle function and a stable tongue position, the teeth can move more predictably, sometimes leading to a shorter time in braces and a reduced need for extractions.
• Support During Orthodontics: The exercises can help the tongue stay off the teeth, preventing it from working against the forces of braces or aligners.

By addressing issues like mouth breathing, thumb sucking, and tongue tie early, this therapy helps prevent future problems such as speech difficulties, dental misalignment, and sleep-disordered breathing. Tailored to each child’s unique needs, Pediatric Myofunctional Therapy supports healthy growth, ensuring a foundation for long-term oral and overall health.