Orofacial Myofunctinal Therapy

Myomunchee Device

Myo-Munchee is a superior medical-grade silicone mouthguard designed for active and passive use. During active use, patients must chew on the mouthguard for a total of 10 to 20 minutes daily. This essential chewing action effectively engages the mouth and facial muscles, resulting in improved function of the tongue, lips, and cheeks, which leads to healthier swallowing, breathing, and optimal jaw development. Additionally, the bristles within the MyoMunchee stimulate crucial neurological connections between muscle activities and the brain through the act of chewing.

For passive use, patients should wear the MyoMunchee at night as directed by their practitioner. This nighttime usage is critical—it prevents facial muscles from exerting inward forces that compromise the natural growth of the jaws while promoting nasal breathing and encouraging the tongue to maintain an elevated position for better swallowing.

Orofacial Myology: Specialized Care for Oral and Facial Muscle Function

Orofacial Myology is a professional discipline focused on the evaluation and treatment of a variety of oral and facial (orofacial) muscles and functional disorders. These issues, often referred to as Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs), include postural and functional problems and oral habits that can negatively impact normal dental development and lead to cosmetic concerns.Our treatment principles are founded on established general neuromuscular and dental science. Undiagnosed or untreated OMDs can disrupt normal physical and dental development in both children and adults. Variations in the resting posture and function of the lips and tongue are commonly associated with:

• Dental malocclusion

• Cosmetic concerns

• Posture and pain concerns

• Abnormal growth and posture of the dental arches

Optimal Age for Therapy

• Ages 5 and up: Children as young as five can benefit from evaluation and therapy, particularly for eliminating sucking habits. This age is typically ideal for starting digit sucking therapy or referring a patient for a medical evaluation regarding potential airway interference.

• Ages 6 or 7 and up: Treatment for resting posture problems of the tongue and lips, and other functional issues like tongue thrusting, is generally indicated starting at age six or seven.

• Adults: Orofacial Myofunctional therapy is also highly effective for adults. OMDs can develop later in life due to late jaw growth, the progression of a malocclusion, or factors like tooth loss, accidents and strokes. Therapy for adults is typically efficient, focusing on re-patterning tongue and muscle movements, and strengthening and stabilizing orofacial muscles through a range of exercise-based activities and sometimes myostimulation therapy. The neuroscope is also incorporated in our treatment protocols as a supportive adjunctive for clients who are suffering from pain and anxiety. This technology was originally developed for exclusive use in the area of Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) for medical and physiological benefits. CES is known to be effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression and insomnia, as a treatment for migraine headaches and during drug withdrawal or alcohol rehabilitation.

• Key Areas of Treatment Focus:

• Habitual Mouth Breathing/Abnormal Breathing Patterns

• Low Oral Rest Posture

• Open Mouth/Lip Posture

• Tongue Thrust (Incorrect oral phase swallow pattern)

• Orthodontic Issues (malocclusion/relapse)

• Tongue/Lip Tie

• Prolonged Oral Habits (thumb sucking/pacifiers)

• Chewing and Swallowing Disorders

• Temporomandibular (TMJ) Pain

• Feeding Problems

• Articulation Placement Errors

• Muscle re-patterning after strokes or accidents.

We work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the most effective treatment plan and outcomes for our clients. This team may include your Dentist, Orthodontist, ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor), osteopath, and other relevant professionals as needed.