Orofacial Myology

Additional Information

Orofacial myofunctional disorders involve patterns and behaviors created by inappropriate muscle function involving the tongue, lips, jaw, and face. This also includes noxious oral habits like thumb sucking. Abnormal swallow patterns are the most common orofacial myofunctional variation. Incorrect positioning of the tongue during swallowing, chewing, and at rest may contribute to improper orofacial development. It can also maintain the misalignment of the teeth.

A speech pathologist with a specific training in orofacial myology will work as part of a team with pediatricians, dentists, ENTs, orthodontists, osteopaths, and oral surgeons. If a child exhibits a combination of myofunctional disorders as well as speech disorders, traditional speech therapy often fails to remedy the speech problem. Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of myofunctional therapy.

Orofacial Myologists specialize in the following:

Improper oral habits such as thumb and finger sucking/nail biting
Tongue tie (ankyloglossia)
Improper tongue resting posture
Abnormal chewing and swallowing patterns
Open lip posture

For frequently asked questions, click here.

Specializing in:

Tongue tie/Ankyloglossia

Improper tongue resting posture

Tongue tie can affect chewing, swallowing, articulation, and even facial growth.

Improper tongue resting posture

A low and forward tongue position is never normal. A COM® can determine the reason for this habit and help to resolve it.

Abnormal chewing/swallowing

Improper tongue resting posture

Abnormal chewing/swallowing

Myofunctional disorders can affect how we chew and swallow and lead to detrimental health effects.

Open lip posture

Abnormal chewing/swallowing

The healthiest people breath through their noses. Children should not sit with their lips open.

Oral habits

Open lip posture

Airway health

Oral habits can include nail biting, thumb sucking, finger sucking, or tongue sucking.

Airway health

Open lip posture

Airway health

A COM® is trained to identify when to refer to an airway specialist (an ENT). A patent airway is the key to better health.