Learn MFT/Tongue physiology

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) involve issues with the muscles and functions of the face and mouth. These disorders can directly or indirectly affect various aspects such as breastfeeding, facial skeletal growth, chewing, swallowing, speech, occlusion, temporomandibular joint movement, oral hygiene, orthodontic treatment stability, facial aesthetics, and more.

OMDs often stem from habitual nasal breathing issues or oral breathing. The adaptation of muscles and orofacial functions to abnormal breathing patterns leads to various OMDs, which may impact treatments provided by orthodontists, dentists, dental hygienists, speech-language pathologists, and other professionals in the orofacial field.

Myofunctional Therapy (MFT) can alleviate symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring, and improve mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Properly performed, MFT exercises strengthen the muscles of the tongue, throat, and face, reducing airway obstruction. The therapy is painless and involves relatively simple exercises.