Orthodontics

Orthodontics and Myofunctional Therapy

When it comes to braces, there is much more that an Orthodontist has to look at than just the position of your teeth.  There are many other factors that influence the ability to straighten your teeth.

The Tongue

The tongue plays a major role in the development of your mouth and jaw and shaping the position of your teeth. It’s the natural expander of your jaw. Ideally, your tongue should rest high in the roof of your mouth, providing an internal support system for the upper jaw and teeth.  When someone has a tongue-thrust, tongue-tie or mouth breathing problem, the tongue rests low in the bottom of the mouth and the support system isn't in place. The lack of internal support can alter the proper growth and development of the jaw. 

Tongue Thrust

When the tongue is resting against the front teeth, the tongue pushes forward every time you swallow, which is called a tongue thrust (reverse swallow). Tongue thrusting is a symptom of a much larger issue and often accompanied with a low resting tongue posture.

Low Tongue Posture

Low Tongue Posture

Tongue Thrust

Tongue Thrust

Protect your Orthodontic Investment

Orthodontists acknowledge that a tongue-thrust can be troublesome when it comes to straightening the teeth and close spaces. There are a wide range of appliances that have been developed to control or "tame" the tongue but many of these tongue habit appliances simply do not work because they only address the symptom, not the CAUSE.  They in turn often create new incorrect patterns of movement and amplify poor oral rest posture.

Myofunctional Therapy is the best form of treatment to eliminate a tongue-thrust without the use of appliances by addressing the “roots cause”. Progressive neuromuscular exercises work to retrain the oral and facial muscles to gain control over your tongue and eliminate the tongue-thrust habit.  This is a successful form of treatment for both children and adults. 

It’s important to eliminate any dysfunctional habits to reduce the risk of orthodontic relapse. As an Orofacial Myologist, we work closely alongside of Orthodontists to ensure you receive the best results and “help keep your orthodontic investment protected”.

Schedule in to see us for an OMT Evaluation and we would be happy to help you identify and assemble your comprehensive health team of professionals.