Tongue-tie and lip-tie can affect individuals of all ages, from infants struggling with breastfeeding to adults experiencing speech impediments, snoring, or sleep apnea. These conditions can also contribute to oral health problems, such as an increased risk of cavities and gum disease due to improper tongue and lip posture. Myofunctional therapy offers an innovative solution by targeting the underlying muscle dysfunction caused by these ties.
At Southwest Myofunctional Therapy, myofunctional therapy is a noninvasive, exercise-based approach that targets the muscles and functions of the mouth and face. For individuals with tongue-tie or lip-tie, myofunctional therapy can help correct these conditions by addressing muscle imbalances and training the tongue and lips to function optimally. The therapy is tailored to the individual's needs, focusing on tongue posture, proper swallowing, breathing, and speech.
The Myofunctional Therapy Process
Comprehensive Assessment
The journey begins with a thorough evaluation by our certified myofunctional therapist in Albuquerque, NM. This assessment involves observing the patient's oral posture, swallowing patterns, speech, and other related functions to pinpoint areas of dysfunction.
Customized Treatment Plan
Based on the assessment, the therapist designs a personalized treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs and challenges. This plan includes exercises and activities to improve tongue and lip mobility, promote proper swallowing, and encourage nasal breathing.
Hands-On Guidance
Regular sessions with the therapist are crucial. During these sessions, patients are guided through exercises designed to strengthen and coordinate the oral muscles. The therapist provides hands-on support, ensuring the correct execution of each exercise.
At-Home Exercises
Consistency is key. Patients are often given specific exercises to practice at home, reinforcing the techniques learned during therapy sessions. These exercises are integral to the overall success of myofunctional therapy.
The Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy
Improved Tongue Mobility
Myofunctional therapy in Albuquerque, NM, helps individuals with tongue-tie regain proper tongue movement, enhancing speech articulation and enabling efficient chewing and swallowing.
Enhanced Lip Function
For those with lip-tie, myofunctional therapy focuses on improving lip mobility, allowing for better lip seal during breastfeeding, speech, and other oral activities.
Speech Development
By retraining oral muscles, myofunctional therapy supports the development of clear and coherent speech patterns, addressing speech impediments often associated with tongue- and lip-ties.
Better Breathing Habits
Myofunctional therapy encourages nasal breathing, essential for proper oxygenation and respiratory health.
Improved Breastfeeding
Infants with tongue-tie often struggle with breastfeeding. Myofunctional therapy can help babies latch more effectively, easing the breastfeeding process for both the infant and the mother.
Tongue-tie and lip-tie can pose significant challenges, but myofunctional therapy offers a beacon of hope. Myofunctional therapy empowers individuals to overcome feeding difficulties, speech impediments, and oral hygiene issues by addressing these conditions through noninvasive and tailored approaches. If you or your child is facing the constraints of tongue-tie or lip-tie, visit Southwest Myofunctional Therapy at 4800 Juan Tabo Blvd NE STE D, Albuquerque, NM 87111 or call (505) 218-6565.