At Miami Designer Smiles, Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia are changing lives with a unique approach to oral health issues known as Myofunctional Therapy. Now, we’re shining a light on this practice, which is geared towards addressing conditions linked to insufficient room in the mouth.
Understanding Myofunctional Disorders
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) dramatically impact the muscles around the mouth and face. These conditions obstruct natural functions such as breathing, swallowing, and speaking. Studies show that around 38 percent of the general population and a staggering 81 percent of children with speech or articulation problems experience OMDs.
The Consequences of Untreated OMDs
If left unchecked, OMDs can affect various aspects of oral health and overall wellbeing, including:
- Facial and skeletal growth
- Bite alignment
- Jaw joint movement
- Facial aesthetics
- Oral hygiene
- Success of past or future orthodontic treatment
The Causes of OMDs
One key cause of OMDs is insufficient room in the mouth. Others include:
- Thumb sucking
- Finger sucking
- Resting with lips apart
- Adopting a forward resting posture
Myofunctional Therapy: Correcting the Problems
Myofunctional Therapy offers a solution to these problems, leading to significant relief for patients affected by OMDs. But what exactly is this innovative approach?
Defining Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional Therapy is a non-invasive, pain-free treatment method designed to rehabilitate the orofacial muscles. Through personalized exercises, patients can relearn healthy habits for normal mouth and facial functions, leading to improved oral health and overall wellbeing.
Myofunctional Therapy and Insufficient Room in the Mouth
Myofunctional Therapy has a significant part to play in addressing and rectifying issues caused by insufficient room in the mouth. This proven therapeutic method works by:
- Strengthening and toning muscles in and around the mouth
- Eliminating unproductive habits like thumb sucking
- Encouraging proper tongue placement and swallowing
- Promoting nasal breathing over oral breathing
Myofunctional Therapy at Miami Designer Smiles: How It Works
At Miami Designer Smiles, expert therapists provide personalized Myofunctional Therapy programs to fit the unique needs of each patient. The therapy involves:
An Initial Assessment
The initial evaluation involves a comprehensive examination to assess the full extent of the patient’s symptoms, oral condition, and facial muscle patterns.
Creation of a Tailored Therapy Plan
Following the initial assessment, a tailored therapy plan catering to a patient’s specific needs and goals is formulated.
Regular Sessions
Patients progress by attending regular therapy sessions where they learn and practice exercises geared towards improving muscle function and eliminating harmful habits.
Conclusion
Myofunctional Therapy can be the solution for individuals suffering from OMDs due to insufficient room in the mouth. At Miami Designer Smiles, we have mastered this science to provide patients with proven solutions for improved oral health and quality of life.