Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy in Tongue Thrust Habit

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) focuses on the treatment of oral and facial muscle imbalances, which can lead to conditions such as tongue thrust habit. Tongue thrust habit is a condition where the tongue pushes against or between the teeth during swallowing or speech, causing orthodontic problems and other issues.

Understanding Tongue Thrust Habit

Tongue thrust habit, also known as orofacial muscular imbalance, is a common condition in children and adults. It is often caused by habits such as thumb sucking or pacifier use, or by a genetic predisposition. Tongue thrust habit can cause orthodontic problems, such as an open bite or an overbite, and can also lead to speech problems and difficulty swallowing.

Orofacial Therapy

OMT is a type of therapy that focuses on correcting oral and facial muscle imbalances. It involves a series of exercises and techniques that are designed to retrain the muscles of the mouth and face, in order to correct tongue thrust habit and other related conditions.

Benefits of OMT in Treating Tongue Thrust Habit

There is a growing body of scientific research that supports the use of OMT in treating tongue thrust habit. One study found that OMT was effective in correcting tongue thrust habit in children, leading to significant improvements in speech, swallowing, and dental alignment.

Another study found that OMT was effective in reducing the severity of tongue thrust habit in adults, leading to improvements in speech and dental alignment.

OMT is also effective in treating other related conditions, such as sleep apnea and snoring. One study found that OMT was effective in reducing the severity of sleep apnea in adults, leading to improvements in sleep quality and overall health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is an effective treatment for tongue thrust habit and other related conditions. Scientific research supports the use of OMT in correcting oral and facial muscle imbalances, leading to improvements in speech, swallowing, dental alignment, and overall health.

If you or someone you know is suffering from tongue thrust habit or related conditions, consider consulting with a qualified OMT practitioner to learn more about the benefits of this therapy.