Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

What are main problems related to OMD's?

The main problems related to OMDs are alterations in breathing, sucking, chewing, swallowing and speech.

What can cause an open bite?

A problematic occlusion can be caused by multiple factors. Harmful habits such as thumb sucking or pacifier use as well as the presence of  a functional disorder (mouth breathing, inadequate tongue positioning).

How is OMT connected to cases of snoring?

As part of the multidisciplinary team that includes a sleep specialist In this team, the OMT (Myofunctional Therapist) can help by teaching specific exercises to strengthen the muscles of the mouth and throat and improve oral rest posture.  

What is OSA? Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is defined as an obstruction of the airflow channel during sleep.

Does snoring contribute to the emergence of OSA? It does, due to the constant vibration, the muscles of the mouth and throat become larger, which can result in size, width and thickness changes. This may contribute to total or partial obstruction of breathing during sleep.

What is mouth breathing? Mouth breathing refers to breathing performed predominantly by the mouth. When breathing this way, the nose is used very little, or not at all, to inhale or exhale oxygen.

Can mouth breathing cause damage? Consistent mouth breathing has been shown to impact structure and function of the face and mouth, sleep, eating, speech and general inflammation.

What is the difference between nasal and mouth breathing?When breathing through the nose, the air is filtered, warmed and humidified making it more pure once it reaches the lungs. Breathing through the mouth, the air does not go through the same process and reaches the lungs full of impurities.

How can mouth breathing impact the ability to learn or focus? As a result of Sleep disturbances. Sleep disturbances can cause anxiety, impatience, agitation, lack of focus, impulsiveness and discouragement. These changes can cause difficulties with attention, concentration, memory and subsequent learning difficulties in children, especially during a child's critical growth and development period.  

 What is a tongue tie? Often undetected, a tongue tie (ankyloglossia) is a short, tight band of tissue that tethers the tongue's tip to the floor of the mouth. It can affect how a child eats and speaks, and can interfere with breastfeeding. This condition restricts the tongue's range of motion.

When should a tongue-tie be treated?When the tongue cannot perform necessary movements  and thus jeopardizes the way of swallowing, chewing, talking or sucking. This is typically recommended by a member of a multidisciplinary team such as an MD,ENT, DDS, Pediatrician or LC.