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OrofacialMyofunctionalTherapyDiagnosis and TreatmentRidgeZellerTherapy.com

What are Orofacial MyofunctionalDisorders (OMDs)?Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder (OMD) is a conditionthat involves abnormal patterns of muscle function andcoordination in the face and mouth. It can affectindividuals of various age groups, including children,teenagers, and adults. OMDs may impact the optimal growth and development ofmuscles and structures in the face and mouth, leading todifficulties in activities such as speaking, swallowing, breathing,and sleeping. Early intervention is crucial for addressing thesedisorders and preventing potential complications. 3160 N Arizona Ave, Suite 105, Chandler AZ 85225RidgeZellerTherapy.comPhone: 480-365-9981

Correction of oral resting posture (i.e., tongue, lips, and jaw)Remediation of tongue thrust habits to achieve corrected chewing and swallowing patternsElimination of adverse oral habits (e.g., thumb sucking, nail biting, etc.)Facilitation of nasal breathing vs. mouth breathing patterns to support sleep and breathing patternsPrevention of orthodontic relapseCorrection of speech sound productions for improved speech intelligibilityIndividualized Treatment for Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)Our speech-language pathologists are specifically trained in thetreatment of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders.Therapy is designed to address abnormal patterns of muscle functionand coordination in the face and mouth. Therapy can retrain andimprove the strength, coordination, and function of the musclesinvolved in activities such as swallowing, chewing, speaking, andbreathing. Therapy is tailored to the needs of the individual. If surgicalcorrection is required, we offer pre and post operative care, proven tobe the most effective and evidence-based care model.RidgeZellerTherapy.com3160 N Arizona Ave, Suite 105Chandler AZ 85225Clinic: 480-365-9981Call to Schedule an Appointment

Causes of OrofacialMyofunctional DisordersThumb-sucking and Pacifier/Bottle Use: Prolongedthumb-sucking or pacifier/bottle use beyond a certain agecan affect the development of the oral muscles and thealignment of the teeth and jaw.Tongue Thrusting: When the tongue pushes forwardagainst the front teeth during swallowing, it can causeabnormal swallowing patterns and affect dental and facialdevelopment. This can also result in orthodontic relapse ifleft untreated.Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs) / Structural Abnormalities:Connective tissues within the oral cavity, including theupper/lower lip, upper/lower cheeks on both sides, andunderneath the tongue, can be too restrictive and impairthe functional movements required for adequate speech,sleep, and swallow function, resulting in compensations(e.g., mouth breathing, over/under-activation of muscles,etc.).3160 N Arizona Ave, Suite 105, Chandler AZ 85225RidgeZellerTherapy.comPhone: 480-365-9981Several factors can contribute to the development of OMDs andcan often be a combination of factors. Some common causes are:Breathing Disorders: Chronic mouth breathing, oftenassociated with allergies, nasal congestion, or upperairway obstructions, can impact the muscles and functionof oral and facial structures.Anatomical Factors: Structural abnormalities in the oraland facial region, such as enlarged tonsils or adenoids.Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition tocertain types of orofacial myofunctional patterns.Research suggests there is a correlation between tongue-ties and a mutation in the MTHFR (i.e.,methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) gene.Neuromuscular/Developmental Disorders: Conditionsaffecting the nerves and muscles in the face and mouth.Neurological/developmental disorders or injuries thataffect muscle coordination may play a role.Dental Issues: Misalignments of the teeth/jaw or otherstructural/dentition concerns.