Myofunctional therapy is a specialized treatment discipline that focuses on the muscles of the face and neck. It can be particularly helpful for patients diagnosed with sleep apnea, snoring, TMJ, orofacial pain, malocclusions, and tongue-tie. Myofunctional therapy uses exercise and retraining techniques for the muscles and the general posture of the face, throat, and mouth. In Texas, myofunctional therapy is a popular option for people of all ages who are looking for effective and non-invasive ways to manage their symptoms.
How Myofunctional Therapy Works
Myofunctional therapy focuses on retraining the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat to encourage proper posture and movement. This is achieved through a variety of exercises designed to strengthen and reeducate the muscles.
Myofunctional therapy is also aimed at re-learning proper breathing and swallowing patterns. This is especially important for those who have faulty muscle patterns that can lead to problems like sleep apnea, snoring, and TMJ pain.
The Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy has many advantages for those seeking relief from sleep apnea, snoring, TMJ, orofacial pain, malocclusions, and tongue-tie. Outlined below are some of the benefits of myofunctional therapy:
Pain Relief: Myofunctional exercises are designed to strengthen and reeducate the muscle to relieve pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as TMJ and orofacial pain.
Inhibition of Tooth Movement: Myo-functional therapy can help to reduce the risk of tooth movement and changes in facial appearance due to malocclusions.
Improved Sleep: Myofunctional therapy can help to reduce snoring and the severity of sleep apnea symptoms in both children and adults. By re-training the muscles responsible for breathing and airway control, myofunctional therapy can help to improve sleep quality.
Better Oral and Facial Muscle Development: Myofunctional therapy can help to correct poor oral and throat muscle function that can result in underdeveloped facial structures. By improving muscle coordination and strength, myofunctional therapy can help to support proper oral and facial development.
Where to Access Myofunctional Therapy in Texas
In Texas, there are many practitioners who offer myofunctional therapy. Choose a dental professional who is certified in myofunctional therapy to ensure you receive the best possible care. It is important to ask your dentist or orthodontist for a recommendation and to seek out a qualified, experienced myofunctional therapist.
Conclusion
Myofunctional therapy is an effective non-invasive treatment modality for those diagnosed with sleep apnea, snoring, orofacial pain, TMJ, malocclusions, or tongue-tie. It involves exercise and re-education of the muscles responsible for movement, posture, and breathing to help improve symptoms and promote proper oral and facial development. In Texas, certified myofunctional therapists are available to help those looking to unlock the benefits of myofunctional therapy.