What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy (also known as orofacial myology) is based on neuromuscular re-education. By retraining the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat, children can develop healthier habits such as:
- Proper nasal breathing (day and night)
- Correct tongue posture on the palate
- Elimination of habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or nail biting
- Improved chewing, swallowing, and speech function
The Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy
This therapy supports your child’s development far beyond their smile. Benefits include:
- Better breathing: Encourages nasal breathing, improving oxygen flow, sleep, and energy.
- Speech clarity: Strengthens muscles that aid pronunciation and articulation.
- Jaw growth: Supports proper development and alignment, reducing orthodontic complications later.
- Whole-body wellness: Enhances sleep quality, posture, and long-term health.
Integrating Myofunctional Therapy with Pediatric Dental Care
At Bee Happy Pediatric Dentistry, we take a preventive and holistic approach to pediatric care. Myofunctional therapy may be combined with:
- Early orthodontic treatment to guide facial growth
- Nutritional counseling to support oral and airway health
- Tongue-tie or lip-tie releases (frenectomies)
- Airway and sleep assessments for children with snoring or breathing concerns
What Happens During Myofunctional Therapy?
Sessions are interactive and designed to engage children. Depending on your child’s needs, exercises may include:
- Tongue exercises for correct resting posture
- Fun activities like blowing games and lip-seal practice
- Swallowing techniques to eliminate tongue thrust
- Speech-related drills for articulation support
Parents are given clear instructions to reinforce exercises at home, ensuring steady progress between visits.
FAQs: Myofunctional Therapy for Kids in Newton, MA
- Is myofunctional therapy safe for young children?
- Yes. It is a safe, non-invasive therapy with age-appropriate exercises that children enjoy.
- How long does it take to see results?
- Most families notice improvements within 3–6 months, depending on consistency and age.
- Can this therapy help with sleep problems?
- Yes. By promoting nasal breathing and proper tongue posture, myofunctional therapy can reduce snoring and improve sleep quality. We may also coordinate care with ENT specialists when necessary.
- Does my child need orthodontics with this therapy?
- Often, yes. Early orthodontic expansion combined with myofunctional therapy ensures better facial growth, airway development, and long-term oral health.
Support Your Child’s Growth with Myofunctional Therapy in Newton
Myofunctional therapy helps children breathe easier, speak clearer, and grow with healthier smiles. At Bee Happy Pediatric Dentistry, we’re proud to offer this innovative approach as part of our comprehensive care.
Schedule a consultation today to learn how myofunctional therapy can benefit your child.