Healthy Start Myofunctional Therapy in Whitby, ON

Dentistry On Dundas > Services > Healthy Start Myofunctional Therapy

Overcoming Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders for Improved Health and Quality of Life

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders are disorders of the muscles and functions of the mouth and face that can disrupt the regular functionality of these muscles. This may affect infant feeding, physical and mental growth and development, chewing, swallowing, digestion, speech, oral hygiene, facial esthetics, sleep and much more. Correct swallowing depends on the relationship between the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat. If a swallowing pattern has been disrupted (for many reasons), it can create dysfunctional behaviours in the whole system. Recurrent behaviours can influence the form and function of the teeth and jaw, pushing things out of place leading to speech delays, TMJ dysfunction, stomach distress, airway obstruction and other health challenges including Hypertension and Cancer. One of the effects of OMD’s is low tongue posture or a tongue that sits on the bottom of the mouth. This increases mouth breathing which can lead to enlarged tonsils becoming inflamed and blocking the airway. Thumb-sucking habits, bottle feeding, sippy cups and prolonged use of straws can force the tongue into a low position and push up against the teeth. Additionally, sleep-disordered breathing, snoring and obstructive sleep apnea can be affected by the muscles of the tongue, throat, and face.

The Far-Reaching Effects of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders on Infants and Children

Did you know that 9 out of 10 children suffer from one or more symptoms related to Sleep Disordered Breathing?

The central issue for many children suffering from the effects of Sleep Disordered Breathing is a compromised airway. When a child’s airway is narrow, underdeveloped, or constricted in any way, the child will struggle to receive enough oxygen at night which can result in serious mental and physical health issues.

Myofunctional Therapy can help with many of these dysfunctions by improving chewing, swallowing, nasal breathing, and proper tongue posture. Treatment usually consists of a regular program of exercises over an extended period and can be combined with our Healthy Start program which includes a removable appliance to help reposition the jaw, teeth and tongue.

The Healthy Start Program: Combining Myofunctional Therapy and Arch Development

The Healthy Start Program addresses sleep-disordered breathing symptoms and concerns while straightening your child’s teeth. Only worn a few hours a day and/or at night while the child sleeps, this removal appliance naturally widens the dental arches and develops the jaw as nature intended. Healthy Start along with Myofunctional Therapy, provides a safe, non-invasive treatment promoting arch development, beautiful smiles, straight teeth and a lifetime of healthy breathing and improving quality of life.