Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are a prevalent yet often overlooked issue affecting children nationwide. These disorders directly impact oral and facial muscles, disrupting natural functions like eating, speaking, and breathing.
Understanding Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)
OMDs are muscular disorders of the face, mouth, and jaw that can affect children as early as infancy. Their wider recognition has been instrumental in preventing and managing numerous complications related to children’s oral health and overall well-being. The disruption they cause to crucial functions like eating, speech, and breathing makes them a vital area of concern.
Key Symptoms of OMDs in Children
Manifestations of this condition can vary greatly. Some prominent signs include:
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Lingual protrusion during speech or swallowing
- Speech impediments
- Mouth breathing
- Malocclusion or improper alignment between upper and lower teeth
Major Causes of OMDs
While multiple factors contribute to OMDs, certain common practices and conditions often lead to such disorders. Here are a few primary causes:
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Resting with lips parted
- Adopting a forward tongue rest posture
- Inadequate space for tongue placement within the mouth due to structural abnormalities
The Prevalence of OMDs in Children
Surprisingly, research reveals that up to 81% of children with speech or articulation issues also suffer from OMDs, while around 38% of the general population is affected by this disorder. It thus becomes crucial to understand the high prevalence of OMDs in children thoroughly for their timely diagnosis and intervention.
Impact on Facial and Skeletal Growth
If left untreated, these disorders can significantly impact a child’s facial and skeletal development. Adaptation to poor oral habits can influence the growth and shape of facial bones and the jaw, often giving rise to asymmetries and dysfunctions.
Effect on Bite Alignment
OMDs can lead to malocclusion or unaligned teeth, leading to bite problems. Timely intervention can lessen the chances of this occurrence and the need for extensive orthodontic treatments later on.
Influence on Oral Hygiene
Children suffering from OMDs often struggle with maintaining proper oral hygiene due to difficulty in brushing and flossing. This habit can lead to dental caries, gum diseases, and other oral health issues over time.
Effect on Past or Future Orthodontic Treatments
OMDs can negatively impact the success rate of past or future orthodontic treatments. In such cases, it’s not uncommon to see the teeth revert to their original, misaligned places after the removal of braces or other orthodontic appliances.
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy for OMDs
The most effective and recommended treatment for orofacial myofunctional disorders in children is therapy. Through this approach, a specially-trained therapist helps the child relearn the right techniques for swallowing, breathing, and maintaining oral posture. The therapist will also guide them through the full range of exercises designed to strengthen the oral and facial muscles.
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