What is Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional Therapy can play a key role in restoring proper airway function. This therapy (also called Orofacial Myology), aims to correct tongue posture, mouth posture, and swallow mechanics. When these elements are functioning properly and in harmony, healthy parasympathetic balance and oxygen levels are achieved. These good orofacial habits are especially important to solidify in a growing child, as ideal jaw and airway development are crucial to overall health and wellness.

Myofunctional Therapy teaches new habits and forms neuromuscular connections by training the tongue and facial muscles to work properly. When the tongue rests low in the mouth, people can develop airway issues such as mouth-breathing, snoring, sleep apnea, grinding, and restless sleep. Nasal breathing needs to become a habit in order to achieve restorative sleep and optimal airway health. In some cases, the tongue needs to be released before the brain can re-train the tongue to rest up on the palate.

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders & Concerns Include:

At our office, our trained Myofunctional Therapist (Jessica Emmert) offers customized therapy sessions to a wide range of patients. After an Initial Assessment, Jessica will go over the findings with the patient (or parent) and recommend a specific therapy session best suited for their individual needs. Jessica’s background in dental hygiene, combined with her Myofunctional Therapy training, makes her well-suited to work with patients of all ages. Anyone interested in our office’s tongue-tie (frenectomy) procedures with Dr. Schindler is first required to be seen by a Myofunctional Therapist, as this service is critical to the success of the release.

Please call our office at 651-483-9800 in order to schedule an appointment with Jessica.

To learn more about Jessica’s services, visit www.mintmyo.com.