Did you know there’s a natural way to support proper teeth alignment and jaw development? This preventive method is called myofunctional therapy which is a holistic approach now adopted by dentists worldwide. Let’s explore this fascinating technique!

1. What is Myofunctional Therapy?

   Also called "myotherapy," this preventive treatment re-educates mouth and facial muscles using exercises and removable appliances. Started at a young age, myofunctional therapy promotes proper jaw growth in children and may help avoid future orthodontics.
   
   This approach also addresses underlying problems like:
   

   • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
   • Mouth breathing
   • Atypical swallowing
   • TMJ disorders
   
   Plus, myotherapy can help improve other health issues such as:
   • Obstructive sleep apnea
   • Snoring
   
   The exercises correct harmful habits like breathing through the mouth instead of the nose or pushing the tongue against teeth when swallowing. This treatment is teamwork! For success, patients must learn the exercises and practice them regularly. For children, parent involvement is essential to achieve desired results.
   
   While still relatively unknown in Canada, myofunctional therapy is well-developed in the U.S. and Europe. Practitioners offering this approach complete specialized training. The most recognized institution worldwide is Myofunctional Research Co., which has taught this technique for over 30 years.





2. Treating the Cause Rather Than Symptoms

   Our mouth connects to our entire body. One weak element can trigger a cascade of effects. Myofunctional therapy takes a holistic approach, considering the whole patient. Rather than treating individual symptoms (like jaw pain or morning headaches), it addresses root causes.
   
   If you notice your child often has:
   

   • An open mouth
   • Stuffy nose
   • Seasonal allergies
   • Difficulty sleeping
   • Frequent tiredness/dark circles
   
   They're likely mouth breathing. For proper jaw and facial development, the tongue should gently press the palate impossible when mouth breathing. Closed lips also prevent teeth from protruding forward. Mouth-breathing children often develop narrow jaws that can't accommodate adult teeth, leading to crowding.
   
   Myofunctional exercises teach proper tongue positioning, preventing:
   • Misaligned teeth
   • Speech issues
   • Breathing problems





3. Myofunctional Appliances

   Used alongside exercises, removable dental devices:
   
   

   • Promote proper tongue position
   • Support correct breathing/swallowing
   • Improve sleep quality





4. Don't Wait to Consult

   If your child mouth-breathes or shows signs of misalignment, see us promptly. Myofunctional therapy works best when started young, before habits become ingrained. Adults can also benefit! During your visit, we'll thoroughly evaluate the situation and recommend appropriate treatment.
   
   

   At any age, good health requires:
   • Proper breathing
   • Correct swallowing
   • Quality sleep