Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Irenic offers Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, also known as orofacial myology, is described as “the study and treatment of the oral and facial muscles as they relate to speech, dentition, chewing/bolus collection, swallowing, and overall mental and physical health.” (Sandral R. Holtzman).
Dr. Michelle Parker completed her training in MyoMentor with Sarah Hornsby in spring 2020 in evaluating and treating orofacial myology disorders. The main group of patients that are seeking this type of therapy are trying to determine if their tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is causing a functional issue or prepping their body for the tongue-tie release procedure. There are some that have found that the actual surgical release of their tongue/lip tie was not needed after strengthening their oral and facial muscles.
Others that seek orofacial myofunctional therapy are parents that are trying to find a resolution for their child with a “tongue thrust”, those with airway concerns, sleep apnea, chronic thumb suckers, speech articulation concerns, and trying to avoid orthodontic relapse after their braces are removed, and those that suffer from jaw/TMJ pain.