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Before starting therapy we will need to perform an evaluation to determine your individual needs and come up with a plan
Free Discovery Call
Have Question? Think you may benefit from myofunctional therapy? This complimentary discovery call is a great opportunity to allow you to ask questions and help you to learn more about myofunctional therapy. You will learn more about MyoFit's myofunctional therapist and if MyoFit is the right fit for you. We are confident you will be assured that you will be in great hands and that you will be provided with the best quality care to lead you to a better, healthier you. After the discovery call, a complete myofunctional therapy comprehensive evaluation is needed to determine what issues are present and come up with an individualized treatment plan to address those problems.
FREE
Initial Comprehensive Myofunctional Therapy Evaluation
An in depth evaluation of orofacial dysfunction, review of health history, compensations, functionality, and an individualized plan for therapy
When performing a comprehensive myofunctional exam, the primary focus is to look at the orofacial myofunctional disorders, as well as the airway. The tongue strength and position will have a significant impact on the airway.
The initial evaluation can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours depending on the severity of the orofacial myofunctional disorders and complexity of the individual case.
Proper diagnosis allows for targeted and effective therapy exercises for oral posture retraining to promote better health with goals to improve breathing, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life.
During the assessment we will:
· Complete a thorough investigation of health history
· Review behavioral, structural, and functional factors that contribute to orofacial myofunctional disorders
· Take photos, videos, and measurements of the mouth and face (some photos may be taken prior to evaluation)
· Discuss goals and create individual therapy plan
· Discuss possible necessary referrals with other professionals
· Ask questions and learn more about myofunctional therapy
Once in therapy, sessions will strengthen the tongue and orofacial muscles to correct their improper function, address the four goals of myofunctional therapy. Therapy will help to obtain a normal resting posture for your lips, jaw, and tongue. This is important because all these components can be trained to correct resting posture so that proper breathing, eating, and sleeping can be achieved, thus improving the overall quality of life!
Myofunctional Therapy Program for Adults and Teens
Myofunctional Comprehensive Therapy Program
(Teens and adults 12-20 sessions)
Our programs are available to clients who have already completed an initial comprehensive myofunctional therapy evaluation.
We have different programs according to our patient's unique needs:
Regular Course of Myofunctional Therapy: This is a 12-15 Session program taking you through the stages of therapy to address orofacial dysfunctions without needing a a tongue-tie release. This will include progress sessions as part of the therapy.
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Myofunctional Therapy & Tongue Tie Release Therapy (Pre & Post Op): This is a 15-20 Session program for those patients with TOT's (tethered oral tissues) requiring a tongue-tie release. This includes the progress sessions as part of the therapy. The package does not include the TOT's release which is performed by a specialist. We can, and will, recommend a TOT's release provider. This therapy focuses on preparing the client for the functional frenuloplasty and the post-op therapy, as well as addressing other orofacial dysfunctions needing to be addressed.
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Sessions for both programs will begin with focus on stabilizing the oral facial muscles and building a strong foundation for later sessions, which will focus on addressing your personal symptoms and myofunctional therapy goals.
The Comprehensive Therapy Program includes a minimum of 12 sessions with your myofunctional therapist. This is usually sufficient to achieve your therapy goals. For some very challenging cases, further sessions may be recommended to establish these new muscle patterns and ensure long-lasting health benefits.
Your therapist will refer you to the proper professionals and specialists needed for your comprehensive treatment. That could include an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist, Airway Centric Dentist, Airway Centric Orthodontist, Physical Therapist, Chiropractor, Massage Therapist, Craniosacral Therapist, among others.
Please note: It will take time and commitment for all family members involved to maximize treatment outcome success. At-home participation is essential for this exercise-based therapy.
Children's Myofunctional Therapy Programs (Ages 4-12)
An in depth evaluation of orofacial dysfunction, review of health history, compensations, functionality, and an individualized plan for therapy
During the evaluation, which lasts anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, the Myofunctional Therapist will assess the strength and movement of your child’s lips, tongue, jaw, cheeks and palate. In addition, they will evaluate your child’s ability to chew food, move food around in their mouth, and swallow food and liquids. They may also evaluate your child’s speech skills if needed. You may bring your own food and drink, or food can be provided.
Pictures and video of your child will be taken as part of the evaluation as a baseline of their oral structure and skills. Pictures and video are kept private and confidential.
Here are some questions you might be asked at the evaluation:
Does your child snore?
Is your child a picky, messy, slow or fast eater? Do they avoid certain foods?
Does eating seem like a lot of work for your child?
Does your child have any behaviors during mealtimes?
Is your child self-conscious of their eating or speech?
Have you seen an orthodontist?
Does your child have an open mouth while eating?
Is your child’s mouth open often during the day?
After the evaluation is completed, the therapist will analyze and review all the testing results and discuss the results with you. The evaluation will determine if there is a need for therapy and if any other referrals are needed.
Your therapist will refer your child to the proper professionals and specialists needed for his or her comprehensive treatment. That could include an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist, Airway Centric Dentist, Airway Centric Orthodontist, Physical Therapist, Chiropractor, Massage Therapist, Craniosacral Therapist, among others.
Children's Comprehensive Myo Program
(Perfect for children ages
6-9 years old)
This program is designed for children 6 years of age or older who can follow a more strict program but doesn't need an adult comprehensive therapy program.
This program is designed for children 6 years of age or older.
Regular Course of Myofunctional Therapy: This is a 12 Session program taking your child through the stages of therapy to address orofacial dysfunctions without needing a a tongue-tie release. This will include progress sessions as part of the therapy.
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Myofunctional Therapy & Tongue Tie Release Therapy (Pre & Post Op): This is a 12-15 Session program for those children with TOT's (tethered oral tissues) requiring a tongue-tie release. This includes the progress sessions as part of the therapy. The package does not include the TOT's release which is performed by a specialist. We can, and will, recommend a TOT's release provider. This therapy focuses on preparing the client for the functional frenuloplasty and the post-op therapy, as well as addressing other orofacial dysfunctions needing to be addressed.
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These programs are designed to give parents the tools they need to help their children to address oral myofunctional disorders and symptoms.
You and your child will meet with me for 30-45 minute sessions, once every 2 to 3 weeks, or as needed.
If the child requires a tethered oral tissue (TOT's) release this will usually take place after the 3-4th session has been completed. But the release will be determined based on readiness physically and emotionally.
During the program we try to have lots of fun and make it fun while teaching exercises. This program will give you and your child the tools to help develop a beautiful face and healthy airway. We want your child to grow and develop properly.
When your child snores it might be cute, but it is a warning sign that something has is not right. It is important we address these problems as early as possible to give your child the best chance for a lifetime health.
We will focus on the four goals of myofunctional therapy. Sessions are 30-45 minutes depending on the ability of the child and can and will be cut short if necessary. Parents and caregivers must be present for therapy sessions. It is extremely important the child practice 1-2 times a day. Making games out of the exercises and having a reward system can be highly effective.
The program addresses such issues as:
Incorrect Tongue Rest-Posture: Improper oral resting posture impacts the growth of jaw and facial structures and can cause delayed or improper development, potentially leading to difficulties with chewing and swallowing. An open mouth posture can also result in dry mouth and overall poor oral hygiene.
Lip Incompetence: Lip incompetence remains a universally-used term in dentistry and medicine to describe individuals who can close their lips together but are unable to achieve a relaxed, consistent, lips-together rest posture. The lips remain open, with some upper front teeth (maxillary incisors) showing.
Why the concern about lip incompetence? Lip incompetence is the rest posture when lips rest apart. It is an abnormal rest posture which can be the result of unresolved airway issues, reduced muscle strength and/or habit. Lip incompetence can negatively affect tooth eruption, alignment of teeth, swallowing, speech, function of jaw joint, narrow arches and if left untreated, overtime, can alter the shape of the face. This may be interrelated to tongue-thrusting, digit-sucking or chronic airway obstruction from allergies or enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Lip incompetence cannot only have negative cosmetic consequences, but it can also lead to excessive drooling, messy eating, or dry mouth and gingivitis if the patient is also mouth-breathing.
Mini Myo Program
(Perfect for children ages
4-6 years old)
Made for children 4 to 6 years old who would benefit from easy exercises but are not yet ready for a full therapy program. It is ideal to eliminate habits early and guide growth at a young age.
This program is designed for children 4-6 years of age. It can be purchased in packages of 3 or 6 sessions.
This program is designed to give parents the tools they need to help their young children, and to address oral myofunctional symptoms as early as possible.
You’ll meet with the OMT for 30-45 minute sessions, once every 2 to 4 weeks, or as needed.
Habit Elimination Program
A program designed to help with pacifier, nail chewing, thumb or finger sucking cessation. Sometimes working with a professional and not "mommy or daddy" can be just the thing needed to break the habit.
An evaluation is made to determine if it is the right time to begin treatment. Treatment consists of measurements and observation of their orofacial muscle functions, tongue behavior, swallowing/chewing patterns, and lip strength. Supplies and exercises will be given for treatment at home. We will have fun and provide a comfortable atmosphere.
Special recognition is given to the patient at the end of the habit elimination program to congratulate them on the success of their hard work. A follow-up appointment is encouraged to evaluate and ensure proper habituation of the new postural patterns.
This program is for children who need help with thumb and/or finger sucking, nail biting, pacifier use and other habits. With a gentle approach, this is usually about a month-long program. Daytime and nighttime aides will be used along with simple exercises. Weekly check in texts, calls and videos and lots of support will be offered. Older children typically need the full therapy program as many orofacial myofunctional disorders have been established.
It is important that the child be ready for the habit elimination. If there has been recent major life stress or lifestyle disruption it is better to wait until things settle down.
Thumb/finger sucking habits
Thumb or finger sucking is a noxious oral habit that can alter jaw growth and development as well as create an open bite. Open bites can encourage low tongue posture and an open mouth posture. Oftentimes, digit sucking is a sign of possible airway issues or possibly tethered oral tissues such as a tongue tie. Proper growth development of the skeletal and dental structures happens when the tongue and facial muscles are retrained to proper function and placement.
Pacifier Sucking Habits
Prolonged pacifier habits can alter jaw growth and development as well as cause an open bite and abnormal eruption patterns. Pacifier habits can encourage a low forward resting posture that is not ideal for jaw and teeth development. Pacifier habits can encourage an open mouth posture. It is normal for babies to seek or need the pacifier in infancy, but it should be reserved for soothing purposes only after 6 months of age to avoid it becoming a prolonged habit.
Nail Biting and Other Oral Habits
Nail-biting is a noxious oral habit that can alter jaw growth and development as well as cause damage to teeth and eruption patterns. Oftentimes, it is associated with an airway issue as the jaw is lowered for better airway positioning. Nail-biting can also be a transferred habit from thumb or digit sucking. A thorough evaluation is needed to determine any other therapeutic interventions. Nail-biting causes the tongue to stay in a lowered position that is not ideal for proper oral resting posture encouraging an open mouth posture.
This program is purchased in 3 session increments. Each child is different. Some children stop the habit quickly and easily, while others require more sessions.
Please note: Many symptoms can be improved with therapy alone, but often a multidisciplinary approach is recommended. It may be recommended that your airway be evaluated by other professionals and/or that you complete a professional sleep study with a certified sleep physician to determine the source of your airway restriction. Dentists, orthodontists, chiropractors, physical therapists, cranial sacral therapists, or certified lactation consultants, among others, may be consulted with challenging cases.