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Orofacial myology, also known as orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), is a specialized, interdisciplinary field focused on the evaluation and treatment of abnormal oral and facial muscle posture, function, and habit patterns. These disorders may affect dental and craniofacial development, airway function, occlusion, speech, and facial aesthetics.
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) FAQs in the Area of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Orofacial myofunctional therapy addresses the function of the lips, tongue, cheeks, and facial muscles, as well as related activities such as breathing, chewing, swallowing, sucking, and aspects of speech. Therapy is used for prevention, evaluation, and treatment when these functions are altered or compromised and is commonly delivered in collaboration with dental, medical, and allied health professionals (ie: doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists, nurses, and psychologists).
Who can be a myofunctional therapist or orofacial myologist?
Anyone with a professional healthcare license (i.e. RDH, DDS, SLP, OT, MD, RN, PT, etc.) may attend most continuing education courses in myofunctional therapy. While certification is not necessary to practice orofacial myofunctional therapy, many organizations are providing certifications such as COM®, QOM, or CSOM.* Clinicians practicing orofacial myofunctional therapy may be self-employed or employed by speech therapists, ENTs, dentists, orthodontists, and pediatric dentists, or physical therapists.
*Certified Orofacial Myologist, Qualified Orofacial Myologist, Certified Specialist in Orofacial Myology.
Orofacial myofunctional disorders can lead to many orthodontic and dental problems and are implicated in sleep-disordered breathing. When left untreated, these OMDs can negatively impact quality of life. Examples can be found in the Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder Matrix, which can be viewed below in either image or video format.
(Click on images to enlarge.)
These matrices was created by the Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. You can buy your own matrix posters from their store.
Many Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) can be detected in infancy and treated with the help of a knowledgeable team of pediatric dentists, occupational therapists, lactation professionals, and others. Early treatment of OMDs can prevent the cascade of dental and medical problems seen in the pictures above. However, treatment of OMDs can be accomplished throughout life when the patient is motivated and compliant.
There are many educational paths to consider and several esteemed courses to help you get started. Currently, in the United States, at least six organizations are offering introductory courses in myofunctional therapy with more on the horizon. Programs include:
“Be it resolved that CDHA acknowledges that the scope of dental hygiene practice includes the assessment and evaluation of orofacial myofunctional dysfunction; and further advocates that dental hygienists complete advanced clinical and didactic continuing education prior to providing treatment. CDHA supports hygienists treating orofacial myofunctional disorders without supervision, to patients of all ages, in collaboration with licensed healthcare professionals.”
AOMT Find a Therapist Near You IAOM Directory of Orofacial Myologists
Academy of Applied Myofunctional Sciences Alabama Tongue-Tie Center's Video Resource Library The Breathe Institute Courses International Association of Airway Hygienists Tongue Thrust Other FAQ’s