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Mouth model for oral myofunctional therapy

Orofacial myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional therapy for lisp and tongue thrust

What is Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional therapy improves the way that the muscles of the face and mouth are used for eating, talking, and breathing. Rather than treating each individual symptom, myofunctional therapy addresses the root cause of all symptoms to promote health, growth, and proper development. We work collaboratively with other professionals to achieve the best outcomes, including dentists, orthodontists, allergists, otolaryngologists (ENTs), oral surgeons, physicians, physical therapists, osteopaths, cranial-sacral therapists, and chiropractors.

Who benefits from myofunctional therapy?

Individuals with orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) and related challenges benefit from therapy to address issues such as:

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  • Tongue thrust

  • Poor oral posture and mouth breathing

  • Upper airway obstruction and sleep apnea

  • Dysfunctional oral habits

  • Inefficient swallowing patterns

  • Open bites, overbites, and underbites

  • Poor alignment of teeth

  • TMD

How Does Myofunctional Therapy Work?

Myofunctional therapy is an evidence-based approach to improving oral functions. We directly treat the root cause of symptoms in order to reduce:

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  • Speech sound errors

  • Frontal or lateral lisp

  • Drooling and saliva build-up

  • Snoring and poor sleep quality

  • Thumb or finger sucking

  • Jaw pain and related headaches

  • Forward tongue movement during swallowing

  • Orthodontic relapse and dental health issues

Child in speech evaluation KS

Evaluations

Our comprehensive evaluations begin with a thorough review of medical history. Then, we complete a clinical examination of breathing habits, swallowing patterns, and speech skills, as well as oral and facial structures, muscle movements, and posture at rest. This process allows us to rule out tethered oral tissues (TOTs), determine whether there is an airway obstruction, and create a treatment plan with targeted goals. When appropriate, we will make referrals to other medical professionals to ensure the best outcomes.

Therapy

We make myofunctional therapy engaging by using fun straws, motivating toys, and interactive games! Our therapy methods are based on current research and informed by professional courses from the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM). In addition to direct therapy, we provide weekly home activities for daily practice, which are kept in a physical or electronic folder for families and clients. Myofunctional therapy aims to achieve the following outcomes:

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  • Improved nasal breathing

  • Improved speech sound accuracy

  • Improved orofacial and dental growth

  • Improved swallowing

  • Improved muscle function of the face

  • Improved posture and awareness

  • Proper diaphragmatic breath support

  • Elimination of dysfunctional oral habits

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We also offer customized habit elimination programs. Contact us to learn more!

SLR Speech Therapy services in Olathe KS
Currently Accepting New Clients!
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