What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy works to reduce tongue tie symptoms using the following tools:
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we evaluate, refer and create a treatment plan for individuals with a tongue tie
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we identify anatomical barriers to optimal tongue and mouth function
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we create awareness of proper breathing, swallowing and resting patterns
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we help to strengthen the muscles of the face through exercises
NOTE: Myofunctional therapy is a necessary part of treatment of a tongue tie to insure good surgical outcomes pre and post release.
How can therapy help You?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms Myofunctional therapy can help!​
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Not feeling well rested after a night of sleep
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Frequently waking up in the middle of the night
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Snoring
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Waking up middle of the night to use the restroom
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Head and neck pain
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Migraines/headaches
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Congestion
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Grinding and clenching
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Mouth breathing
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TMJ Pain and
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many more.​​
Identifying Anatomy
Some common anatomical barriers include
- Deviate septum
- Allergies
- Enlarged tonsils/ adnoids
- Narrow Palette (roof of mouth)
- Tongue ties or lip ties (restriction in tongue and lip mobility)
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We're all born with slightly different anatomy, and some individuals have actual physical structures that prevent normal breathing, chewing and swallowing patterns.
Without proper identification of these barriers and intervention to correct the anatomy, no amount of strengthening or awareness work will completely resolve a patient's symptoms!"
Curious about Tongue Ties?
Download my Do I have a Tongue Tie Guide!
Building Awareness
What patterns we create awareness around in Myofunctional Therapy
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Nasal breathing
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Mouth breathing/lipseal
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Tongue posture (correct tongue placement, which should be in the roof of your mouth at all times)
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Correct swallowing
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Without awareness of the simplest patterns we do on a daily basis (like breathing, chewing, swallowing, and basic tongue posture) we won’t be able to detect and correct the compensation patterns that are contributing to the symptoms we are experiencing.
We need to build awareness and new neuromuscular patterns (changes in the brain and connection to facial and tongue muscles) to create long-lasting alleviation of symptoms. This is one reason why surgical intervention alone may not lead to full recovery.
Strengthening Muscles and Reducing Compensations
How we strengthen facial muscles in Myofunctional Therapy
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Specific cheek, tongue, lip exercise based on compensations and weakness a patient presents with when moving their facial muscles.
I’m sure you’ve heard of strengthening your glutes, but did you know that your facial muscles need toning too?
Its true - weak or imbalanced facial muscles can lead to compensations that negatively impact function, posture, and overall health. Working on facial muscle strength and tone can improve ...
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Proper Tongue Posture & Function
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Breathing & Airway Support
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Better Swallowing Mechanics
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Facial Symmetry & Aesthetics
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Jaw Stability & TMJ Health
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