What are Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)?
An OMD (orofacial myofunctional disorder) involves the improper functioning of the muscles in the face and mouth. This dysfunction occurs when the jaw, lips, or tongue are not positioned correctly at rest, during swallowing, or while speaking. These disorders can affect facial skeletal growth and development, as well as interfere with chewing, drinking, swallowing, dental alignment, and speech pronunciation. They may also be associated with sleep disorders and problems related to upper airway obstructions.
The goals of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy are to:
- Correct improper chewing and swallowing patterns.
- Establish normal tongue and lip resting postures.
- Promote effective nasal breathing.
- Improve the ability to move oral muscles properly.
- Eliminate negative habits like tongue-thrust, nail-biting, and teeth clenching/grinding.
- Reduce TMJ/D symptoms.
- Enhance sleep quality.
- Provide pre- and post-care for tongue-tie release procedures.
Jennifer Falcon, Orofacial Myologist
IAOM Active Member, Cert. BBM