Orofacial Myology

Orofacial myology (OM) or Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is the training of the muscles of the mouth and face to work properly. The orofacial muscles, muscles of the mouth, neck, jaw and face, are important for facial and dental growth and development, speech development, eating/chewing and breathing.

Orofacial myofunctional therapy can help with issues in these areas by teaching children to use their face, mouth and tongue muscles correctly. Therapy is based on exercises and works towards establishing correct breathing, swallowing, and chewing patterns. This therapy can contribute to positive outcomes in speech, orthodontic and feeding interventions.

Start Smart Tasmania offers comprehensive myofunctional assessment and therapy, in consultation with a larger team which usually includes speech pathology, dentistry/orthodontics, lactation consultancy, and medical specialists.