DENTAL ISSUES
MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY FOR DENTAL ISSUES
The goal at Williamsburg Myofunctional & Oral Health is to recognize any oral myofunctional disorder (OMD) early so that treatment can be offered and bad oral posture habits won’t cause future speech, sleep or dental issues. The oral rest posture of a patient must be in proper balance so that all elements of the mouth, face, tongue, lips and jaw can work together for optimal function.
While considered normal in infants, when the tongue protrudes forward during swallowing and speaking in children and adults, it is called tongue thrust. This is an oral myofunctional disorder that can affect dentition. Oftentimes, this disorder is not recognized or diagnosed until children are seen by an orthodontist. The speed (how quickly or slowly) at which teeth move during orthodontic treatment alerts the orthodontist that tongue thrust is a problem and impeding the progress of treatment. The position of the tongue is also a vital part of maintaining straight teeth after orthodontic treatment.
In children, prolonged thumb-sucking and pacifier use can cause an open bite which allows and perpetuates a tongue thrust disorder. If tongue position does not improve, it can cause other problems such as:
- Misaligned teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Facial pain
- Speech problems
- Sleep apnea
Children and adults with an abnormal tongue position are more prone to decay and gum disease.
In its proper position, the tongue muscle exerts an evenly distributed force in the palate of the mouth. This force allows the teeth to remain in the proper position after orthodontic treatment. Often, myofunctional therapy is used in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.
VISIT US
Monday: 8am – 5pm
Tuesday: 7:30am – 4pm
Wednesday: 7:30am – 4pm
Thursday: 7:30am – 1:30pm
Friday: Closed (by appointment)
