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Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

What is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a neuromuscular therapy for the muscles of the mouth and face. During therapy, functional exercises and activities are given to retrain and restore proper muscle function. Proper muscle function is needed for optimal growth, facial & dental development, breathing, swallowing and speech.

Dr. King specializes in OMT. Our specialized therapy focuses on improving the muscles' function in facial and oral movements. These muscles play a crucial role in breathing, swallowing, and speech. When these muscles are not functioning correctly, it can lead to various oral health problems.

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Improves Sleep Apnea, Snoring and TMJ Discomfort!


“Current literature demonstrates that Myofunctional Therapy decreases Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) by approximately 50% in adults and 62% in children. Lowest oxygen saturations, snoring, and sleepiness outcomes improve in adults. Myofunctional therapy could serve as an adjunct to other Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) treatments.”

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Macario Camacho, Victor Certal, Jose Abdullatif, Soroush Zaghi, Chad M. Ruoff, Robson Capasso, Clete A. Kushida, Myofunctional Therapy to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, Sleep, Volume 38, Issue 5, 1 May 2015, Pages 669–675, https://doi.org/10.5665/sleep.4652

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM OMT?

Dr. King's OMT plan can benefit individuals of all ages who are experiencing the following:

  • Individuals with abnormal oral habits: This includes habits such as mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, lip sucking, and bruxism (teeth grinding). These habits can lead to various oral and facial problems.

  • People with speech and swallowing disorders: OMT can help individuals with conditions like articulation disorders, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), and stuttering.

  • Those with facial pain or discomfort: Individuals experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or facial tension may find relief through OMT.

  • Children with orthodontic problems: OMT can be beneficial for children who are undergoing orthodontic treatment or have malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth).

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If you are experiencing any of these conditions, let us develop a personalized treatment plan. Request an appointment with Dr. King - your College Park dentist in Orlando. Call 407-425-0087 for more information about Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy.

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Mouth Breathing

 

Individuals with predominant mouth breathing (or insufficient habitual nasal breathing) often develop maladaptive habits and patterns of orofacial function that may impact various conditions including:
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  • Facial skeletal growth (maxillofacial development)

  • Sleep-disordered breathing (including snoring and sleep apnea)

  • Nasal obstruction

  • Oral hygiene and dental problems

  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)

  • Temporomandibular joint dysfunction

  • Neck and shoulder tension

  • Speech problems

  • Facial esthetics

  • And more....

Research

Recent research has shown that myofunctional therapy may reduce the symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing (such as snoring), and ameliorate mild to moderate OSA (obstructive sleep apnea).

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Sleep-disordered breathing can be a result of underdeveloped dental arches. An exam by Dr. King can determine if this may be your case and create a plan for the best treatment.

Call 407-425-0087 and make an appointment with Dr. King if you suffer from sleep apnea or experience sleep-disordered breathing. Our Central Florida dental office is ready to assist you with all of your dental needs.

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OMT, Orthodontics & Sleep Apnea

All orthodontic treatment can and should be developed around maintaining the best airway possible for the patient. This is critical in growing children. When sleep apnea problems are not detected early on, you could develop other issues like learning and behavioral problems, heart disease, and impaired growth.

Dr. King's office has helped numerous children, youth, and adults in treating various conditions associated with mouthbreathing, tongue thrusting, swallowing difficulties, speech disorders, TMJ disorder, and more. Request an appointment today and let us evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.

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