Meet Our Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist
Hello to all our wonderful patients, both current and future! My name is Shanna Baldwin, and I am thrilled to introduce myself as your new Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist here at Cooper Dental.
What is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?
You might be wondering, "What exactly is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?" Let me explain. Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a specialized therapeutic approach focused on correcting the function of the muscles of the face and mouth. This therapy addresses a variety of issues, including improper tongue position, swallowing difficulties, TMJ issues, and even sleep apnea.
How Does Myofunctional Therapy Work?
Myofunctional therapy involves a series of exercises that target the muscles of the face, tongue, and mouth. These exercises are designed to:
- Improve tongue posture
- Enhance breathing patterns
- Reduce dysfunctional muscle compensations
- Correct oral swallowing mechanics
- Support optimal oral rest posture
By training these muscles, we can significantly improve various oral and facial functions, leading to better overall health and well-being.
Why is Myofunctional Therapy Important?
Many of you might not realize just how interconnected our oral functions are with our overall health. Poor orofacial muscle function can contribute to issues like dental misalignment, TMJ disorders, and even sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea. By addressing these underlying problems with myofunctional therapy, we can:
- Enhance the effectiveness of dental treatments
- Reduce the risk of orthodontic relapse
- Improve sleep quality for those suffering from sleep apnea
- Augment the effectiveness of sleep apnea therapies
- Reduce pain in patients with TMJ disorders
Myofunctional Therapy and Sleep Apnea
For patients with sleep apnea, myofunctional therapy can be a game-changer. Sleep apnea is often linked to poor muscle tone in the throat and mouth, which can cause the airway to collapse during sleep. By strengthening these muscles, we can help keep the airway open, reducing the severity of sleep apnea symptoms and improving sleep quality.
What to Expect in Your Myofunctional Therapy Sessions
When you come in for myofunctional therapy, you can expect a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We'll start with a comprehensive assessment to understand your orofacial muscle function. Based on this assessment, I will guide you through a series of targeted exercises and provide you with a routine to practice at home.
Our goal is to make these exercises simple, effective, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Consistency is key, and I'll be here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you see the best possible results.
Join Me on the Journey to Better Oral Health
I am incredibly excited to bring myofunctional therapy to Cooper Dental and to work alongside our dedicated dental team. Together, we can help you achieve not only a healthier smile but also better overall health. If you have any questions about myofunctional therapy or if you think you might benefit from this treatment, don't hesitate to reach out or schedule a consultation.
Thank you for welcoming me into your dental health journey. Let's take the first step towards optimal orofacial function and improved well-being together!
Warmest regards,
Shanna Baldwin
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist
Shanna@dralancooper.com
Cooper Dental