When there are imbalances or dysfunctions in the muscles of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, cheeks or jaw, it can lead to orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs), which can affect both children and adults.

When Do Kids Typically Get Treated for OMDs?

Children can be evaluated for OMDs as early as 3 or 4, especially if there are noticeable issues with speech, swallowing, breathing, or oral habits like thumb-sucking.

What if my child is younger?

Before 3 or 4, speech language pathologists focus on early skills that support healthy oral development. This includes improving oral motor coordination for feeding and speech, addressing chewing and swallowing difficulties, and guiding families on reducing oral habits like thumb sucking. Therapy also encourages nasal breathing and early sound development, all through play-based, parent-supported sessions.

Tongue Thrust – when the tongue pushes forward during swallowing or speech

Open Mouth Posture – chronic mouth breathing or lips apart at rest

Low or Forward Tongue Rest Position – the tongue rests on the floor of the mouth or against the teeth instead of the palate

Thumb or Finger Sucking – prolonged oral habits that can affect dental and facial development

Pacifier Dependence – extended use impacting oral structure and function

Oral Phase Feeding Difficulties – challenges with chewing, swallowing, or managing food in the mouth

Speech Sound Distortions – especially lisps or other sounds affected by incorrect tongue placement

Tethered Oral Tissues – such as tongue-tie or lip-tie, which restrict movement

Teeth Grinding – often related to oral tension or airway issues

Facial Muscle Imbalances – weak or overactive muscles affecting function and growth

As a speech language pathologist trained in orofacial myology, I focus on exercises and techniques that help retrain the muscles of the mouth and face. Treatment may involve:

Oral Rest Posture – promoting proper placement of the tongue, lips, and jaw at rest

Nasal Breathing – encouraging consistent breathing through the nose

Swallowing Patterns – correcting tongue thrust and promoting efficient swallowing

Chewing and Mastication – improving coordination and strength for safe, effective eating

Speech Clarity – addressing sound distortions caused by incorrect tongue or jaw positioning

Habit Elimination – reducing thumb sucking, pacifier use, nail biting, or other oral habits

Tongue and Lip Mobility – supporting range of motion and strength for functional movement

Pre- and Post-Frenectomy Support – helping with tongue-tie or lip-tie releases through exercises and integration