Orofacial Myology & Speech Pathology
The goal of Orofacial Myology is to establish, restore and maintain function to the muscles of the lips, tongue, face and neck.
Dysfunction in oro-facial muscles may affect posture, breathing, swallowing and speech. The function of muscles also affects form – development of the jaw, expansion of the palate and tooth alignment. As we grow, function is in turn affected by form. For example, it may not be possible to resolve certain speech difficulties if there is a large over-jet, open bite, narrow jaw or highly vaulted palate. It is also important to recognise that we may not be able to establish a functional swallowing pattern or age appropriate speech when certain behaviours, such as thumb sucking or nail biting habits, persist. As Speech Pathologists practicing Orofacial Myology, our aims are to eliminate barriers to successful remediation of speech and swallowing difficulties. Often, we are just one member of a care team, which may also include an Ear Nose & Throat Specialist, Dentist, Orthodontist or Sleep Specialist. This holistic team approach means that benefits often extend to overall health and well-being. Possible Causes of an Orofacial Myofunctional DisorderHabits
Restricted airway due to:
Restrictive lingual frenum (tongue tie) Neurological or developmental abnormalities, for example:
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What To Look Out For
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Intervention
In order to select the best path for intervention, a full assessment of speech, swallowing and oro-facial function, is recommended. Gathering a detailed case history will also be important.
A specific plan will then be devised, based upon the constellation of issues identified. If it is felt that structural issues such as enlarged tonsils, a deviated septum or restrictive lingual frenum (tongue tie) are contributing to functional difficulties, the first step may be referral to an Ear Nose & Throat Specialist, Dentist or Orthodontist. Factors affecting the airway, such as allergies, must also be addressed as a top priority. If there are habits such as thumb sucking, nail biting or bruxism (teeth grinding) present, your Speech Pathologist will help you to address them via a structured, cognitive-behavioural treatment program. We have come to realise that our helpful ‘tips’ are often not enough to ensure clients break these habits, and such a realisation led us to pursue specialist training in this field. The next stage of our intervention plan will most likely be an Orofacial Myology exercise program, which will train the muscles of the lips, tongue, face and neck. The aim is to ensure the tongue and jaw are correctly aligned when at rest and during swallowing. This will extinguish postures that interfere with speech, enabling successful achievement of our ultimate goal - establishing accurate speech patterns, to support communication! If you have any questions regarding this information, please do not hesitate to contact us for a chat. |