Myofunctional & Airway Therapy
Meeto Myo! Your helper for a stronger smile!
Does form follow function or does function follow form?
Orthodontists help develop the jaw structure and place teeth properly over the bone. Myofunctional therapists; like our friend Myo helps train the soft tissue structures, like the tongue and cheeks, to function in a properly formed structure.
Early signs that would recommend an orthodontic evaluation:
- Habitual mouth breathing
- Chronic sinuses
- Snoring
- Restless sleep
- Drooling
- In speech/Myo therapy
- Difficulty chewing
- Thumb sucking
- Finger habits
- Hyperactivity in school
In children, these issues effect facial and jaw development, so making early evaluations are absolutely essential. When these muscles do not function properly, patterns such as mouth breathing, open-mouth resting posture, and improper swallowing can develop.
Over time, these habits may contribute to crowded teeth, narrow arches, bite issues, sleep challenges, and even orthodontic relapse! Correcting these root causes early allows for healthier growth and better outcomes. Adults can benefit too! Especially if they have trouble breathing through their nose, clench or grind their teeth at night, or notice that their teeth shift even after orthodontic treatment.
Deep Thoughts. Deeper Breathing.
The relationship between myofunctional therapy and orthodontics is almost philosophical. Like the classic question, “What comes first, the chicken or the egg? We’re often asked, “Does form come before function, or does function shape form?” Myofunctional therapy reminds us that how the muscles work can influence how the smile develops, which is why it’s often recommended by our doctors. We’re committed to honoring both sides of this balance through continued education and ongoing learning with the Myo Mentor and the Breathe Institute.
Airway analysis is an evaluation of the upper airway, including the nose, throat, and surrounding facial structures, to assess how efficiently a person breathes. Because airway size and shape are closely related to jaw position, tongue posture, and dental alignment, Drs. Quimby and Collins are uniquely qualified to identify potential airway concerns early. Airway dysfunction can affect more than breathing alone. In both children and adults, a compromised airway may be associated with snoring, restless sleep, and underdevelopment of the jaws. Early evaluation is particularly important in children, as many airway-related concerns can be influenced or improved during active growth and development.
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Treatment may help improve nasal breathing, create more space in the palate, support healthy jaw development, reduce dental crowding, and allow the tongue to rest where it belongs. Because the airway plays a vital role in overall health, addressing it is an important part of comprehensive care.
At Indian Land Orthodontics, our goal is to create beautiful smiles while also supporting healthy breathing patterns, balanced facial development, and long-term wellness. If you’d like to learn more or schedule an airway-focused evaluation, we would be happy to help guide you.