Myofunctional Therapy at Golf Links Dental
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a specialized approach to retrain the muscles of the face, tongue, lips, and airway to function in harmony. It addresses improper patterns of muscle use (such as tongue thrust, mouth breathing, or poor swallowing mechanics), which can negatively impact oral health, dental alignment, sleep quality, and facial development.
Rather than just correcting symptoms, myofunctional therapy aims to restore optimal muscle function and support the long-term stability of dental and orthodontic results.
Why Consider Myofunctional Therapy?
- Enhanced orthodontic/aligner outcomes
Even after braces or clear aligners, untreated muscle dysfunction (like tongue thrust or low tongue posture) can contribute to relapse. Myofunctional therapy helps “lock in” results by aligning muscle habits with your new bite. - Improved breathing and airway health
Many patients breathe through their mouths due to chronic nasal obstruction or certain habits. Over time, mouth breathing can lead to dry mouth, gum irritation, and even affect facial growth. Myofunctional therapy encourages nasal breathing and proper tongue posture. - Reduced risk of sleep-disordered breathing
In certain cases, dysfunctional oral posture and weak orofacial muscles are associated with difficulties such as snoring or obstructive sleep apnea. Myofunctional therapy may be a complementary tool (alongside other treatments) to improve airway function. - Better oral posture, swallowing, and speech
Correcting tongue thrust, lip incompetence, or altered swallowing patterns can improve speech articulation, reduce stress on dental structures, and contribute to more balanced facial musculature.
Who Can Benefit?
Myofunctional therapy is suitable for a wide range of patients, including:
- Children developing poor swallowing or tongue habits
- Teenagers or adults undergoing orthodontics or post-treatment retention
- Individuals with snoring, mild sleep breathing issues, or airway concerns
- Patients with tongue thrust, mouth breathing, or habitual lip‑pulling
- Anyone seeking to improve oral posture, facial balance, and long-term stability of dental work
We evaluate each case individually to tailor therapy and integrate it into a holistic treatment plan.
Our Approach at Golf Links Dental
At Golf Links Dental, we integrate myofunctional therapy as part of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach:
- Initial Assessment
We begin with a thorough evaluation of muscle function, tongue posture, swallowing patterns, rest posture, breathing behaviour, and oral–facial habits. - Customized Exercise Program
Based on your assessment, we design a step-by-step regimen of exercises targeting the specific muscle groups involved: the tongue, lips, cheeks, and airway musculature. - Monitoring & Feedback
Progress is tracked at regular follow-ups. We refine exercises, provide guidance, and ensure that improvements are integrated into daily life (e.g. sleep posture, nasal breathing, swallowing habits). - Integration with Dental / Orthodontic Treatment
We coordinate with your dental, orthodontic, or airway care providers to ensure your muscle training supports (rather than conflicts with) other treatments. - Long-Term Retention & Maintenance
Even after active therapy ends, we may recommend maintenance exercises or periodic check-ins to preserve results.
What to Expect: Timeline & Commitment
- Therapy typically lasts 3–12 months, depending on your starting point, age, and consistency.
- Appointments are usually monthly or every 4–6 weeks to monitor progress.
- Most of the work is home-based, with exercises to be practiced daily (often 10–20 minutes).
- Improvement is gradual; early changes in posture or habits may be noticeable within weeks, but structural adaptation takes longer.
Does Insurance Cover Myofunctional Therapy?
Coverage for myofunctional therapy varies. Some dental or allied health plans may cover aspects (especially when indicated for orthodontic support or airway health). Our team will help you explore possible coverage and payment options.
FAQs
Is myofunctional therapy painful or uncomfortable?
No. The exercises are gentle and gradually train muscle control. You may initially feel mild stretching sensations, but they should not be painful.
Can adults benefit, or is it just for children?
Adults absolutely can benefit. Although younger patients may respond more quickly, adults often show meaningful improvements when they are committed to the program.
Do I need to stop other treatments (e.g. braces, aligners)?
Not at all. Myofunctional therapy often complements orthodontic or dental treatment; our clinicians coordinate to ensure synergy.
Will this cure sleep apnea?
Myofunctional therapy is not a standalone cure for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea. However, it can assist as adjunct therapy by improving muscle tone, posture, and airway function. We’ll assess whether you require a sleep study or additional treatments.
Get Started
If you’re curious whether myofunctional therapy is right for you or your child, schedule a consultation.
Call us at (905) 648‑9598 or Request an Appointment through our website.
At Golf Links Dental, we believe in addressing not just the teeth—but the muscles, posture, and habits behind lifelong oral health and stability.