Many dental and oral health issues stem not just from tooth problems, but from the way we use the muscles in our face and mouth. At Valley OMT in Camp Hill, PA, part of the Verber Dental Group network, we specialize in Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT), a specialized approach that can transform oral function and overall wellness for patients throughout South Central Pennsylvania.
What Is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is a specialized treatment program that helps patients correct irregular patterns in the facial muscles used for speaking, breathing, and eating. Think of it as physical therapy for your face and mouth. Just as a physical therapist helps strengthen and retrain muscles after an injury, our OMT specialists at Valley OMT work to retrain the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat to function properly.
This therapy involves customized exercises that target specific muscle groups to establish proper muscle function and correct harmful habits. While it might sound complex, the approach is gentle, non-invasive, and can be remarkably effective for patients of all ages.
Understanding Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) occur when there’s an imbalance in the muscles of the mouth, face, and throat. These imbalances can lead to various issues that affect daily life and long-term health.
Common signs of OMDs include:
- Mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing
- Tongue thrust during swallowing
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Speech difficulties, including certain lisps
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Forward head posture
- Chronic open-mouth posture
- Sleep-disordered breathing or sleep apnea
Many people don’t realize that these issues can be addressed through specialized therapy. At Valley OMT, we provide comprehensive evaluations to identify these disorders and develop personalized treatment plans.
The Benefits of OMT Treatment
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy offers numerous benefits beyond just improving oral function. When the muscles of the face and mouth work correctly, patients often experience:
Improved breathing patterns, leading to better sleep and increased energy Enhanced speech clarity and articulation More efficient chewing and swallowing Reduction in TMJ pain and dysfunction Better outcomes for orthodontic treatment Decreased likelihood of orthodontic relapse Potential improvement in symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing Improved facial aesthetics and posture
Our approach at Valley OMT integrates seamlessly with other dental specialties within the Verber Dental Group, allowing for comprehensive care that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of oral health issues.
The Valley OMT Approach
At our Camp Hill location, our certified Orofacial Myofunctional Therapists work closely with each patient to develop individualized treatment programs. Therapy typically involves regular sessions where patients learn specific exercises designed to strengthen and retrain muscles, along with techniques to practice at home.
What makes our approach unique is our integration within the Verber Dental Group network. Our therapists collaborate with orthodontists, dentists, ENT specialists, and speech pathologists to ensure a coordinated approach to your care. This multidisciplinary perspective allows us to address complex issues more effectively than isolated treatment could achieve.
Take the First Step Toward Better Oral Function
If you or a family member struggle with any signs of orofacial myofunctional disorders, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Valley OMT in Camp Hill. Our specialists will evaluate your specific situation and discuss how OMT might benefit you. Early intervention is particularly beneficial, especially for children, but patients of all ages can experience significant improvements with proper therapy.
Contact Valley OMT today to learn more about how Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can help improve breathing, speaking, and overall oral wellness for you and your family.
