myofunctional therapy…what is it?
As a speech therapist, I have seen first-hand the impact that improper oral habits can have on speech and overall oral health. That is why I strongly believe in the importance of myofunctional therapy as a means of correcting these habits and promoting better health.
Myofunctional therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on achieving the proper function of the muscles of the face, mouth, and neck. This therapy aims to improve habits that may be contributing to various oral health problems, such as incorrect swallowing patterns, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing. These improper oral habits can lead to a range of problems, including speech difficulties, tooth decay, gum disease, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
One of the key benefits of myofunctional therapy is its ability to improve speech. Improper oral habits, such as mouth breathing and tongue thrusting, can affect the clarity of speech and make it difficult for individuals to articulate sounds correctly. By correcting these habits through myofunctional therapy, individuals can improve their speech clarity and overall communication skills.
In addition to improving speech, myofunctional therapy can also have a positive impact on oral health. Poor oral habits can lead to a range of oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and TMJ pain. By correcting these habits, myofunctional therapy can reduce the risk of these problems and promote better overall oral health.
It is also worth noting that myofunctional therapy is the most effective when used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as orthodontics, ear nose and throat doctors, allergies, and speech therapists, in order to achieve the best possible outcome. This collaborative approach helps to address multiple aspects of oral health and function, resulting in a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.
Myofunctional therapy is a crucial tool for improving speech and oral health. By correcting improper oral habits and promoting proper muscle function, myofunctional therapy can improve speech clarity, reduce the risk of oral health problems, and promote better overall health and wellbeing. As a speech therapist, I highly recommend myofunctional therapy to anyone looking to improve their oral health and speech.
With Love,
SG Speech Therapy