Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
"The study and treatment of oral and facial muscles as they relate to speech, dentition, chewing/bolus collection, swallowing, and overall mental and physical health."
-S.R. Holtzman, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®
Symptoms of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD)'s may include the following:
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Articulation errors (ex. lisps)
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Tongue thrust​
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Open mouth posture
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Low tongue posture​
Common Causes of OMD's:
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Ankyloglossia (tongue-tie)
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Noxious oral habits (ex. prolonged pacifier or bottle use, thumb/finger sucking, nail biting, cheek biting)
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Upper airway obstruction (ex. allergies, enlarged adenoids and/or tonsils)
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Orofacial Myofuncitonal Therapy promotes optimal orofacial muscle development and function. Speech (articulation) treatment is also sometimes recommended.
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Referrals to other health professionals may be recommended so that the client can achieve the most desirable outcome. Examples might include referrals to orthodontists, ENT specialists, dentists, and body workers.
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Feeding Therapy
According to ASHA, "Feeding disorders include problems gathering food and getting ready to suck, chew, or swallow it. For example, a child who cannot pick up food and get it to her mouth may have a feeding disorder."
Many children today are described as "picky" eaters. In fact, 25% of typically developing children and up to 80% of children with developmental delays and/or health issues are reported to have feeding disorders (Manikam R, Perman JA). Children may present with food texture aversions and/or have a limited diet (i.e. chicken nuggets and fries).
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Infants can also present with difficulties feeding due to an undiagnosed upper lip-tie and/or tongue-tie.
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A feeding evaluation will assess the client's ability to suck, chew, eat, swallow, and tolerate foods and liquids of different textures.
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Mealtimes should be happy times!
SCREENINGS, EVALUATIONS, & TREATMENT
Services
Screenings and evaluations are available by appointment.
Teletherapy services are available to NC, SC & VA residents.
