About Myofunctional Therapy
What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a unique treatment that focuses on retraining the muscles of the face, mouth, and tongue to support better oral health and function. Through a series of targeted exercises, this therapy aims to correct improper habits such as mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, and incorrect swallowing patterns.
Myofunctional therapy goes beyond just straightening teeth. It works to address the underlying muscle dysfunctions that can lead to a range of issues, including poor posture, sleep apnea, and developmental problems in the face and jaw. By strengthening and rebalancing these muscles, myofunctional therapy can help prevent future dental and skeletal issues and improve overall well-being.
Improve Breathing Efficiency: By promoting nasal breathing over mouth breathing, myofunctional therapy helps improve oxygen intake and lung capacity. This leads to better endurance, more efficient oxygen delivery to muscles, and improved athletic performance during exercise or physical activities.
Supports Posture and Alignment: Correcting muscle imbalances in the face, jaw, and neck can improve overall body posture. Proper posture reduces strain on the body during exercise, helping prevent injuries and supporting a more balanced movement pattern, especially in activities like running, weightlifting, and yoga.
Reduces TMJ Pain and Headaches: For those who experience temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues or tension headaches, myofunctional therapy can reduce muscle strain in the jaw and neck. This relief can prevent discomfort that might otherwise interfere with workouts or training.
Enhances Jaw and Neck Stability: Strengthening the muscles around the jaw and neck improves stability, which can prevent tension, discomfort, or pain during intense physical exertion. This is particularly important for athletes in sports that involve heavy contact or require significant head and neck movement, such as wrestling or martial arts.
Promotes Digestion & Proper Swallowing: Proper swallowing mechanics help with digestion and nutrient absorption, which can support energy levels and muscle recovery. Healthy muscle function contributes to efficient nutrient use, fueling an active body.
Better Sleep Quality: Myofunctional therapy helps improve breathing patterns and can reduce the risk of sleep apnea, leading to better rest. Adequate sleep is crucial for recovery, muscle repair, and overall performance in any athletic endeavor.