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Orofacial
Myology

Orofacial Myology is a highly specialized field within the disciplines of speech-language pathology and dentistry/dental hygiene. 
Graphic-OrofacialMyology.png
As shown in the graphic above, orofacial myology is the study of the muscles of the mouth and face and HOW they rest and function.
What is an Orofacial Myologist?

Orofacial Myologists (or myofunctional therapists) treat what are known as Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders or OMDs

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are compensations we have adopted due to some kind of disruption within the development of the face, airway, and eruption of the teeth. These may include:

  • Thumb and finger sucking habits

  • A habit of resting with the lips apart

  • Mouth breathing due to enlarged tonsils and adenoids or other condition

  • The tongue resting forward and low between or against the teeth

  • Tongue Thrust

  • Airway problems

  • Allergies

  • Other harmful oral habits

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders are often related to or can contribute to: 
  • Low tongue resting posture or Tongue Thrust

  • Disruptions in eruption and development of the teeth

  • Problems with speech and language development, especially speech articulation

  • Feeding problems or picky eating

  • Gagging

  • Abnormal facial growth and development including long, narrow faces

  • Improper development of sinuses, nasal passages, and the airway

  • Orthodontic relapse

  • Ear infections

  • Poor sleep/snoring

  • MOUTH OPEN BREATHING

  • Sleep apnea ~ Lack of oxygen to the brain!

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