Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

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Orofacial Myology Services.

  • What is an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder (OMD)?

    • Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) are patterns involving oral and orofacial musculature that interfere with normal growth, development, or function of orofacial structures, or call attention to themselves (Mason, n.d.A).

  • Common signs of a OMD include:

    • Tongue Thrust

    • Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)

    • Mouth breathing

    • Atypical Chewing and swallowing patterns

    • Oral habits (thumb sucking, nail biting, tongue or cheek sucking)

    • Night-time grinding (Bruxisim)

    • Structural Abnormalities

    • Sleep Disordered breathing

    • Facial tension in the jaw, neck, or mouth

    • Re-occuring headaches

    • Difficulty chewing pills

    • Poor saliva control

  • OMD’s can effect:

    • Speech

    • Digestion

    • Facial/Skeletal growth

    • Chewing/swallowing

    • Dental occlusion

    • Orthodontic relapse

  • Areas of expertise:

    • Sleep-Disordered breathing

    • Anklyoglossia

    • Pre/Post Frenectomy

    • Tempromandibular Disorder

    • Facial Pain

    • Achieving typical chewing and swallowing patterns

  • OMD’s often work with a multidisciplinary team approach consisting of many health care workers (Otolaryngologist, Dentist, Allergist, Chiropractor, Orthodontist, Physical Therapist, Pediatrician) for the most optimal results!