Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) encompass a range of conditions characterized by abnormal patterns of muscle function and coordination in the face, mouth, and throat. These disorders typically involve improper positioning or functioning of the tongue, lips, and jaw during rest, swallowing, speech, and breathing. Common OMDs include tongue thrust, incorrect tongue resting posture, open mouth posture, and dysfunctional swallowing patterns.

 

The causes of OMDs can vary and may include factors such as genetic predisposition, oral habits (such as thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use), anatomical abnormalities (such as tongue tie or malocclusion), orofacial trauma, neurological conditions, and environmental influences.

 

OMDs can have a significant impact on oral and facial development, as well as overall health and well-being. They may contribute to a range of issues including dental malocclusions, speech disorders, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, sleep-disordered breathing (such as snoring and sleep apnea), and facial muscle imbalances.

 

Treatment for OMDs often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including collaboration between speech-language pathologists, dentists, orthodontists, and other healthcare professionals. Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is a common intervention, which aims to retrain and optimize the function of the orofacial muscles through targeted exercises and behavioral modifications. Additionally, addressing underlying factors such as tongue tie or malocclusion may be necessary to achieve optimal outcomes in OMD management.