Myofunctional therapy, integral to successful orthodontic treatment, is rapidly gaining recognition in dental circles. Understandably so, given its potential to rectify Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs), which disrupt everyday functions like eating, breathing, and talking. At Miami Designer Smiles, experts such as Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia have been instrumental in adopting myofunctional therapy as a mainstream treatment protocol, contributing to successful orthodontic outcomes.
Understanding Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)
To appreciate the role of myofunctional therapy in successful orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to first understand the nature of OMDs. Let’s delve into the basics:
- OMDs are disorders of the muscles and functions of the face and mouth.
- OMDs can interfere with normal facial and oral functions like talking, eating, and breathing.
Research suggests that 38 percent of the general population and as high as 81 percent of children with speech or articulation problems suffer from OMDs. If not treated, OMDs can impact numerous aspects including:
- Facial and skeletal growth
- Alignment of bite
- Jaw joint movement
- Facial aesthetics
- Oral hygiene
- Success of past or future orthodontic treatment
Common causes of OMDs include habits like thumb sucking, finger sucking, resting with the lips apart, adopting a forward resting posture, and insufficient room in the mouth.
Myofunctional Therapy and Orthodontic Treatment
Myofunctional therapy acts as a pivotal component in successful orthodontic treatment by addressing and mitigating OMDs. Here’s how myofunctional therapy can make a difference:
1. Corrects Habits Leading to OMDs
Myofunctional therapy focuses on retraining the muscles of the mouth and face. This therapeutic approach helps eliminate negative habits like thumb sucking and open mouth posture, thereby minimizing the occurrence of OMDs.
2. Facilitates Correct Alignment
By correcting muscular function, myofunctional therapy ensures better alignment of the jaw and teeth. This correction is paramount to the success of orthodontic treatment.
3. Aids in Long-term Success of Orthodontic Treatment
Without treating the root cause – the myofunctional habits, orthodontics alone often provides temporary relief. Myofunctional therapy can address these underlying issues, resulting in a lesser chance of relapse post-orthodontic treatment.
Ultimately, incorporating myofunctional therapy into orthodontic treatment can make a significant difference, not just in terms of immediate alignment correction, but for long-term success and the overall enhancement of oral health.
Conclusion
Myofunctional therapy is clearly more than a supplementary treatment; it’s a cornerstone for successful orthodontics. Clinics like Miami Designer Smiles, with dedicated professionals like Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia, are leading the way in integrating this therapy into mainstream dental care. Therefore, if you or a loved one are looking at orthodontic treatment, consider myofunctional therapy as an invaluable part of your journey to the perfect smile.