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Myofunctional Therapy: More Than Just a Beautiful Smile

When you hear “Myofunctional Therapy,” what springs to mind? If it’s the thought of a radiant smile and well-aligned teeth, you’re not alone. But don’t be fooled—there’s a plethora of benefits hiding behind that dazzling facade. Myofunctional therapy serves more than just aesthetic purposes; it delves deep into the wellspring of oral health and holds hands with disciplines such as speech pathology. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the mysteries of Myofunctional Therapy, its functional benefits that go far beyond aesthetics, its psychological advantages, and practical steps for diving into this life-changing therapy.

What is Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional therapy (also known as oral myofunctional therapy or orofacial myology) is a specialised form of oral therapy focusing on optimising the function of the facial muscles, tongue, and respiratory tract. This form of treatment seeks to instil proper tongue posture, breathing patterns, and muscle function—all key elements for oral and systemic health.

The first use of myofunctional therapy dates back to the early 20th century, where it was primarily used to correct improper tongue posture for speech development. Over the years, the scope has expanded remarkably, integrating disciplines like orthodontics, speech pathology, and even nutritional science.

Beyond Aesthetics: Functional Benefits

Beyond the surface-level aesthetics, the functional benefits of myofunctional therapy are far-reaching. At its core, this therapy ensures adequate tongue posture, which plays a crucial role in maintaining better teeth alignment and reducing the likelihood of orthodontic issues, thus significantly improving oral health. Moreover, this improved tongue posture is intricately connected to enhanced breathing techniques. With a focus on nasal breathing, myofunctional therapy facilitates optimal oxygen exchange—a vital process for various physiological functions and overall well-being.

Beyond just physical health, myofunctional therapy is also a cornerstone in the development of proper speech articulation, especially in children. By aiding in the effective pronunciation of words, it helps reduce speech-related insecurities and promotes clearer communication. Remarkably, the benefits of this therapy even extend to digestive health. By instilling proper chewing and swallowing techniques, myofunctional therapy can streamline the digestive process, thereby minimising the risks associated with gastrointestinal issues. This multifaceted approach not only enhances the functional aspects of oral health but also contributes positively to general health and well-being.

Psychological Advantages

The psychological benefits of myofunctional therapy are significant, impacting more than just physical benefits, but deeply impacting emotional and mental wellbeing too. When individuals feel more comfortable and capable in their speech and bodily carriage, it naturally elevates their self-perception and social interactions. Further, the correct breathing techniques fostered by myofunctional therapy play a significant role in stress reduction. By promoting calm and focused breathing, it contributes to emotional balance and mental stability.

This aspect is particularly crucial for children / paediatrics, as their speech and oral posture are pivotal in socialisation. By improving these areas, myofunctional therapy gives children a vital head start, equipping them with the tools they need to navigate social landscapes effectively and confidently.

In summary, the benefits of myofunctional therapy can include:

Improves Oral Health: Ensures adequate tongue posture for better teeth alignment and reduced orthodontic issues
Enhances Breathing: Promotes enhanced nasal breathing for optimal oxygen exchange, crucial for physiological well-being
Aids Speech Development: Facilitates proper speech articulation and pronunciation, especially beneficial for children
Boosts Digestive Efficiency: Instils correct chewing and swallowing techniques, improving the digestive process and reducing gastrointestinal issues
Overall Well-being: Contributes positively to general health by integrating improvements in oral and respiratory functions
Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem: Improved posture and speech from the therapy enhance self-perception and social interactions
Reduces Stress: Correct breathing techniques foster emotional balance and mental well-being, leading to reduced stress levels
Enhances Socialization in Children: Aids in the development of speech and oral posture, crucial for effective social interaction and confidence in social settings

How to Get Started with Myofunctional Therapy

Starting myofunctional therapy here in Queensland involves a few key steps, especially for those planning to access services through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or other funding options.

First, consult with a healthcare professional, such as your GP or a speech pathologist, to get an initial assessment. They can help identify any oral health, breathing, or speech pathology issues that myofunctional therapy can address.
If you’re an NDIS participant, your next step would be to discuss myofunctional therapy during your planning or plan review meeting. It’s important to ensure that myofunctional therapy aligns with your NDIS goals. Once it’s included in your plan, you can then seek out NDIS-approved providers (like Therapy Partners)
For those using private health insurance or self-funding, you can directly approach therapists. Regardless of the funding method, ensure that your chosen therapist is certified and has a strong track record, ideally with a multi-disciplinary approach

We have a dedicated, passionate team of therapists across a range of disciplines. To get started, complete a referral using the button below. This involves providing details about you, your specific needs and goals, and how we can help. Our team can then work with you to personalise a therapy plan that suits your needs.