5 Signs Your Child May Benefit From Myofunctional Therapy
Many parents first learn about Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy after a recommendation from a dentist, orthodontist, speech therapist, or airway provider.
Others discover it after noticing habits or symptoms that seem unrelated at first glance.
Because oral muscle function plays an important role in breathing, swallowing, sleep, and development, certain signs may indicate that a child could benefit from a closer evaluation.
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional Therapy is a specialized exercise-based program designed to improve how the tongue, lips, jaw, and facial muscles work together.
The goal is to establish healthy patterns that support long-term oral function, breathing, and development.
Sign #1: Mouth Breathing
One of the most common indicators is chronic mouth breathing.
You may notice:
Open-mouth posture during the day
Sleeping with the mouth open
Frequent dry mouth
Persistent congestion
The mouth was not designed to be the primary pathway for breathing, and long-term mouth breathing may impact oral development.
Sign #2: Snoring or Restless Sleep
Children should generally breathe quietly through their noses while sleeping.
Potential signs include:
Snoring
Restless sleep
Frequent waking
Teeth grinding
Daytime fatigue
Sleep quality plays an important role in growth, learning, and overall health.
Sign #3: Tongue Thrust or Improper Swallowing
The tongue should rest on the roof of the mouth and move in a coordinated way during swallowing.
When the tongue pushes against the teeth during swallowing, it is often referred to as a tongue thrust pattern.
This may contribute to:
Orthodontic concerns
Open bites
Relapse after orthodontic treatment
Sign #4: Crowding or Orthodontic Concerns
While genetics play a role, muscle function and tongue posture can also influence oral development.
Children experiencing:
Dental crowding
Narrow palate development
Open bite
Orthodontic relapse
may benefit from evaluating underlying functional patterns.
Sign #5: Persistent Oral Habits
Certain habits can affect oral development over time.
Examples include:
Thumb sucking
Finger sucking
Prolonged pacifier use
Nail biting
Lip chewing
Identifying and addressing the underlying muscle patterns may help support long-term success.
The Four Goals of Myofunctional Therapy
Most therapy programs focus on establishing:
Nasal Breathing
Proper Tongue Position
Lips Together at Rest
Correct Swallowing Patterns
These foundational habits support healthy oral function and development.
What Happens During an Evaluation?
An evaluation typically includes:
Health history review
Breathing assessment
Tongue posture assessment
Swallowing assessment
Oral habit review
Discussion of treatment recommendations
The evaluation provides an opportunity to understand what is happening and whether therapy may be appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Every child is unique, and experiencing one or more of these signs does not necessarily mean therapy is needed.
However, when concerns are identified early, there may be more opportunities to support healthy growth and development.
If you have questions about your child's breathing, oral habits, tongue posture, or orthodontic concerns, a consultation may help provide clarity and next steps.
About Face Value Myofunctional Therapy
Face Value Myofunctional Therapy provides personalized therapy programs designed to improve breathing, oral function, tongue posture, and long-term oral health.
Little Habits. Big Impact.