Why did I need orthodontics?
Do you ever wonder why you or your child needed orthodontic work? Yes, genetics do play a role, but it may be a much smaller role than you originally thought. Myofunctional therapy focuses on reversing oral dysfunction which has a large effect on your overall dentition and how your teeth align.
When the teeth are crowded, that is actually a sign that the jaw did not develop wide enough. The tongue is actually the muscle that guides the growth of the jaws and facial development. This is why it is imperative that the tongue is sealed to the roof of the mouth during a child’s formative years, as it is the blueprint of the entire mouth. If a child is mouth breathing, this should be a red flag for parents and providers. Not only is mouth breathing unhealthy, but it does not allow the tongue to be in optimal position for growth and development of the face.
It is estimated that 60% of jaw growth is completed by age 6, and that 90% is completed by age 12 (The Breathe Institute). Although early intervention is ideal, it is never too late to start your myofunctional therapy journey.
Myofunctional therapy focuses on retraining the muscles of the tongue to rest in optimal position, to nasal breathe 100% of the time, to unlearn dysfunctional facial and swallowing patterns. A myofunctional therapist also works as a leader in your collaborative health journey.
Here is a great research article linked below!
