Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Optimize your airway, optimize your life.
Welcome
At Revive & Thrive, I’m here to help you unlock better breathing, improved oral function, and greater overall wellness. Using personalized, evidence-based myofunctional therapy and a holistic, whole-person perspective as an occupational therapist, I work with children and adults to address issues like sleep apnea, jaw pain, and airway health. My goal is to empower you to live a healthier, more vibrant life by addressing the root causes and supporting your overall well-being.
What is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a specialized therapeutic approach that focuses on the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat and their functions. These muscles play a critical role in everyday activities like breathing, swallowing, speaking, and chewing, as well as in overall facial development and posture.
At its core, OMT is designed to identify and address orofacial myofunctional disorders - imbalances or dysfunctions in how these muscles work together. Common issues include improper tongue posture, mouth breathing, and incorrect swallowing patterns. Left untreated, these challenges can contribute to problems such as sleep-disordered breathing, speech difficulties, TMJ dysfunction, orthodontic relapse, and even changes in facial structure over time.
Through personalized exercises and guided practice, OMT helps retrain these muscles to function optimally. It takes a holistic, whole-person approach to improve oral and airway health, fostering better breathing, sleep, and overall well-being.
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is suitable for people of all ages, including children age four or five and up. Whether it’s addressing habits like thumb-sucking, optimizing orthodontic outcomes, or alleviating issues like snoring or sleep apnea, OMT empowers individuals to achieve lasting comfort and functionality. By promoting harmony within the orofacial system, this therapy lays a strong foundation for health and vitality.
The Four Primary Goals of Myofunctional Therapy
1. Correct Tongue Posture
The tongue should rest comfortably against the roof of the mouth when not in use. Proper tongue posture supports optimal breathing, swallowing, and facial structure.
2. Establish Nasal Breathing
Encouraging consistent nasal breathing instead of mouth breathing promotes better oxygenation, filters allergens, and supports overall respiratory and nervous system health.
3. Proper Swallow Patterns
Ensuring a coordinated and efficient swallowing mechanism reduces strain on oral and facial muscles, preventing issues like tongue thrust and orthodontic or surgical relapse.
4. Balanced Muscle Function
Achieving harmony among the orofacial muscles ensures they work together efficiently, improving all occupations involving the orofacial complex - such as chewing, speaking, and breathing. This balance supports long-term health and functionality and promotes life-long comfort.