Top 5 Signs That Your Dental Patients Need Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

Spotting the symptoms of orofacial muscle dysfunction is difficult, especially while working in a busy dental practice. Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is gaining attention in dental care for its role in addressing muscle function disorders affecting the face and mouth. As dental professionals, recognizing when patients might benefit from this therapy will improve treatment outcomes and overall oral health.

1. Persistent Mouth Breathing

One of the most common signs that a patient may need Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is habitual mouth breathing. This can lead to dry mouth, bad breath, and increased risk of cavities. Ideally, the mouth is for eating and the nose is for breathing.

How to spot it:

• Constant fogging of the mirror

• Enlarged tonsils, persistent coughing or frequent sore throats

• Dry or chapped lips that may crack and bleed.

• White coated tongue

• Open mouth posture at rest, more commonly spotted in children

  
  

OMT will retain the oral muscles to encourage nasal breathing and reinforce this good habit with diaphragmatic breathing exercises, which improve oxygen intake and reduce oral health risks such as xerostomia and an increased risk of decay.

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2. Tongue Thrusting Swallowing Pattern

Patients develop a tongue thrusting swallow due to low muscle tone and coordination of the muscles of the tongue. occurs when the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth during swallowing.

Signs to watch for:

• Hyperactive gag reflex, i.e. radiographs or ultrasonic scalers

• Difficulties controlling their own tongue during procedures

• Changes in occlusion, open bites and orthodontic relapse after braces

  
  

  Tongue Thrust Swallowing Test:

  1. Seated upright, instruct the patient to bite on their back teeth

  2. Next, retract the cheeks and instruct the patient to swallow

  3. Watch as they swallow and observe signs of difficulty, muscle strain and tongue movement against the teeth.

  
  

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy focuses on building muscles, correcting tongue posture and lastly, retraining the swallow. The tongue is the body's retainer once it is gently resting against the hard palate.

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3. Scalloping of the Lateral Borders of the Tongue

A scalloped pattern on the lateral border of the tongue is a sign of poor tongue posture. Previously, I stated that the tongue is the body's best retainer. If the tongue is resting low in the mouth, the maxillary arch will shrink over time, causing narrowing of the upper arch, reducing the space the tongue so desperately needs and forcing it to rest on the floor of the mouth.

Indicators include:

• Signs of bites or bruising on the tongue

• Signs of Bruxism, occlusal wear, TMJD symptoms

• Complaints of drooling or dry mouth during resting periods.

  
  

Therapy can strengthen the tongue to rest properly and, in young patients, promote proper growth. For adult patients, orthodontics, palatal expansion, or surgery may be required. A therapist will be able to advise on recommended treatment following a comprehensive examination.

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4. Nail Biting, Thumb Sucking, or Chewing Habits

These non-nutritive sucking habits can be signs of stress or anxiety but can also commonly be related to improper oral rest posture. Our body craves the sensory input of the tongue on the roof of the mouth, and if lacking, we adjust. If these habits continue past the age of 18-month-old they begin to severely impact growth, development, and speech.

Look for:

• Speech difficulties, especially “S,” “T,” and “L”

• High vaulted, V-shaped palate

• Open bites, labial inclined teeth

• Atypical dental wear patterns with a biting or chewing habits

  
  

Recognizing these habits can help start a conversation with patients or their parents. Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can help eliminate these habits for good.

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5. Signs of Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Sleep-disordered breathing, like snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, is linked to weak muscles in the upper airway. Regenerative sleep is vital for lifelong brain health, body repair, and for kids who are still growing. Dental professionals, are in a great position to spot these signs early and suggest treatment before the condition worsens.

Common signs:

• Patient reports snoring or daytime fatigue

• Falling asleep quickly and easily

• Red irritated lingual pharyngeal tissue

• Heavy breathing, frequent sighing or yawning

  
  

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can strengthen the upper airway muscles, reducing obstruction by 50%. In more severe case of sleep-disordered breathing, OMT is the perfect complement to dental or medical treatments for sleep apnea.

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Incorporating a myofunctional screening into a bustling practice may seem challenging, but with practice, it quickly becomes a natural part of the care routine. Dental professionals hold a unique power. They see their patients more regularly than most other healthcare professionals, offering a unique opportunity to truly understand, connect with, and make a meaningful difference in their lives. It only takes a moment to recognize these signs and start the conversation but that can lead to improving lives and achieving a brighter, healthier future for patients in need.

If you notice any of these indicators in your patients, consider collaborating with a Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist, like Myself! Together, we can develop a treatment plan that addresses underlying dysfunction and improves long-term dental outcomes.