When most people think about their mouth, they think about what they can see: the teeth, tongue and gums. But we cannot forget about the different parts of our mouth that lie underneath the surface! Our mouths are made up of a system of bone, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons that make it possible for your face and mouth to function properly. Unfortunately, insufficient nasal breathing causes mouth breathing. The result is flawed adaptation of muscles and functions, creating orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs). Because these disorders can affect your everyday life, Dr. James Powell has received training so he can offer myofunctional therapy in Palmdale, California, and restore your comfort. We want you to have a happy, healthy life! Please contact us at (661) 349-7725 and reserve your visit with our dentist if you are experiencing any of the problems listed below.
Common problems related to OMDs include:
- • Problems in facial growth and development
• Difficulty chewing and swallowing
• Speech disorders and difficulty speaking
• Malocclusion (bad bites)
• TMJ disorders
• Difficulty in maintaining good oral hygiene
• Difficulty digesting food
• Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders
• Headaches
• Chronic mouth breathing
• Chronic stomachaches
• Learning disabilities
• Poor posture
• Allergies
• Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching)
• Difficulty breastfeeding
• Behavioral problems in children
• Poor habits such as nail biting and thumb sucking
Most OMDs begin with an airway that does not work properly or with breathing through your mouth instead of your nose. Either of these, or other causes, can lead to disordered patterns and disrupt the overall function of your orofacial area. With myofunctional therapy, you can speak properly, breathe better, eat comfortably and even sleep more soundly.
If you are diagnosed with an OMD, our dentist can begin you on the proper therapy needed to ease your pain and restore balance to your orofacial area. Each treatment plan is based on the patient’s individual condition and needs. We will work with you to establish proper nasal patterns and proper swallowing and chewing patters. We’ve found that a multi-disciplinary approach ensures that all of your needs are properly addressed. As such, we may combine your treatment with orthodontics for long-lasting benefits. Our practice will also help you break old habits and form new ones that can improve your head and neck posture. Myofunctional therapy also helps stretch, tone and develop your facial muscles correctly so that you will see cosmetic improvements as well.
Get the quality of life that you deserve and schedule your visit today.
