Learn More about Orofacial Myology Disorders

Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD’s) present in a variety of ways, with different root causes and symptoms. As a result, I’m introduced to new patients through various channels. Some are referred by dentists, orthodontists or ENT’s; others reach out independently for help with speech delays or other concerns.

OMD’s are Alterations or Compensations in:

  • Breathing
  • Sucking
  • Chewing
  • Swallowing
  • Speech
  • Lip Position
  • Tongue and cheek posture, known as oral rest posture

OMD’s Can Negatively Impact:

  • Upper airway
  • Sleep quality
  • Speech
  • Facial and growth development in children
  • Facial aesthetics
  • Occlusion (the bite)
  • Temporomandibular joint

OMD Symptoms:

  • History of difficulty with breast feeding: Difficulty latching, decreased milk supply, mastitis, and failure to thrive
  • Recurrent ear infections
  • Picky/limited eating
  • Open mouth breathing
  • Head, neck, jaw or facial pain or tension
  • Recurrent headaches
  • Articulation and/or phonological delays/disorders
  • Undiagnosed or diagnosed ankyloglossia (tongue-tie)
  • Oral habits: Thumb sucking, finger sucking, bruxing or grinding of teeth, or tongue or cheek sucking
  • Dental occlusion changes (crowded teeth, cross-bite)
  • Orthodontia regression (orthodontics made teeth straight, but things are changing)
  • Resting with lips apart
  • Tongue moves forward during speech or swallow (sometimes referred to as tongue thrust)
  • A forward resting posture of the tongue between or against the teeth
  • Recessed lower jaw (mandible)
  • Poorly controlled swallow and difficulty swallowing pills

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