Orofacial myofunctional disorder, or OMD, refers to the development of atypical adaptive muscle function and patterns in the tongue, lips, jaw, and facial muscles. The tongue and lips are the most often studied myofunctional variants, yet there is a plethora of potential issues. Tongue thrust is the most prevalent orofacial myofunctional disorder. It is critical to have a clear picture of what is going on before deciding on the best course of action.
The tongue has a fixed position in the mouth when it is relaxed. The swallowing pattern of the tongue is also unique. OMDs are caused by a change in the tongue's position in the mouth, which is sometimes referred to as "tongue thrust." Several concerns and obstacles may arise from these abnormal tongue placements, swallowing habits, and motions if they go unchecked for an extended period. An OMD may contribute to the development and evolution of lisps and other speech impairments.
Obstructive nasal breathing is the most common symptom of OMDs and may occur in both adults and children. An articulation issue may also be a factor. People with OMDs who have difficulty speaking clearly and accurately may benefit greatly from virtual speech therapy. Almost like physiotherapy for the mouth, the speech therapy program teaches and practices new tongue-resting patterns to support a more "normal" resting posture for the muscles and organs involved.
A number of things may cause OMDs, and it is not easy to pinpoint the exact reason in all cases. A doctor or pediatrician, dentist, orthodontist, or speech-language pathologist may diagnose an orofacial myofunctional dysfunction. Tongue thrust is a major speech problem that may worsen without a good speech treatment program. OMDs may be caused by a single or combination of circumstances, according to many speech professionals. The most common factors include:
Upper airway constriction: In many situations, the inability to breathe via the nose results from recurrent or untreated upper respiratory infections or other blockages such as chronic nasal congestion or a deviated septum.
Poor oral habits: Using pacifiers, bottles, and sippy cups for extended periods may lead to the development of an OMD. Other behaviors, such as thumb or finger sucking, biting or chewing nails and cuticles, tongue sucking, biting the lips or cheeks, or teeth grinding, may also play a part.
Structural anomalies: It is possible to have an OMD due to physical or structural abnormalities, such as a lip or tongue knot or the tongue's low lying, forward position.
Genetics: There is some evidence that genetics may have a role in the development of an OMD. If the patient has a genetic predisposition to seasonal allergies or cranial bone abnormalities, they may have an increased risk of developing or worsening OMD.
Developmental issues: Issues such as cerebral palsy, autism, and epilepsy may contribute to the development of OMD.
People who suffer from orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) may get therapy and support. Schedule a consultation with a speech therapist, and they will ensure that you or your loved one gets the treatment needed to restore normal speech.
Request an appointment here: https://smalltalktherapyservices.com or call Small Talk Therapy Services at (713) 471-9086 for an appointment in our Houston office.
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Oral myofunctional therapy (OMT) consists of exercise routines that adjust the tongue and face muscles. Many people do not know, but the tongue's resting position can affect basic oral functions like eating and swallowing, as well as appearance and speech. orofacial myofunctional therapy may help correct oral muscles through specific exercises. Your dental health and…
Orofacial myofunctional therapy includes exercises that help improve mouth, tongue, and facial muscular strength. Speech pathologists often recommend these exercises for health issues like mouth breathing and sleep apnea. Myofunctional therapy exercises are tailored to each patient's specific demands and medical history. The first step to seeking proper treatment is to tell a speech pathologist…
If you have a condition known as orofacial myofunctional dysfunction (OMD), you have a problem with your oral muscles, indicated by abnormal growth and function. Patients of various ages may suffer from OMDs, which may be accompanied by additional speech and swallowing disorders. This article focuses on orofacial myofunctional conditions, including their etiology, symptoms, and…
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Oral myofunctional therapy (OMT) consists of exercise routines that adjust the tongue and face muscles. Many people do not know, but the tongue's resting position can affect basic oral functions like eating and swallowing, as well as appearance and speech. orofacial myofunctional therapy may help correct oral muscles through specific exercises. Your dental health and…
Orofacial myofunctional therapy includes exercises that help improve mouth, tongue, and facial muscular strength. Speech pathologists often recommend these exercises for health issues like mouth breathing and sleep apnea. Myofunctional therapy exercises are tailored to each patient's specific demands and medical history. The first step to seeking proper treatment is to tell a speech pathologist…