Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are characterized by irregularities in the form or function of muscles of the face and mouth. These disorders include symptoms such as: improper jaw growth (overbite, underbite), tethered oral tissues (TOTs), tongue thrust, thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, mouth breathing, sleep disordered breathing, difficulty feeding/ chewing, food aversions, etc. These symptoms or oral habits can lead to issues with speech production, swallowing, and posture of the tongue. Lauren is a trained Speech-Language Pathologist in the Simon Says: Tongue Tips & Thumbs Up Programs. This therapy approach works to restructure and reprogram the oral musculature to correct disordered oral habits.

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)

We specialize in identifying and treating orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs): patterns involving the tongue, lips, and breathing that can impact speech, sleep, feeding, and facial development.

We focus on:

• Proper tongue posture and mobility

• Nasal breathing and airway support

• Lip strength and oral rest posture

• Functional swallowing patterns

• Habit elimination (thumb/finger sucking, prolonged pacifier use)

By addressing these foundational skills, we help children achieve more efficient, long-lasting outcomes.

Your child may benefit from myofunctional therapy if you notice:

• Mouth breathing or open mouth posture

• Tongue thrust or low tongue position

• Speech sound difficulties

• Snoring or restless sleep

• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

• Drooling beyond expected age

• Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use

• History of tongue or lip tie