Common Signs You May Benefit From Myofunctional Therapy
Many breathing, sleep, and oral-function issues are often overlooked or dismissed as “normal” — especially in children.
Myofunctional therapy focuses on identifying why these symptoms occur and addressing the root cause through functional retraining.
If you or your child experience any of the signs below, a functional assessment may be helpful.
Common signs in Children
Early oral-function patterns play a key role in facial growth, breathing, sleep quality, and behaviour.
Some signs may appear subtle but can have long-term effects if left unaddressed.
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• Mouth breathing (day or night)
• Snoring or restless sleep
• Speech or articulation difficulties
• Tongue thrust or low tongue posture
• Poor facial development or narrow palate
• Open mouth posture at rest
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• History of tongue tie (with or without release)
• Frequent fatigue, poor focus, or behavioural concerns
Children often adapt well when therapy is introduced early.
Common signs in Adults
Many adults live with chronic tension, poor sleep, or orthodontic relapse without realising oral-function patterns may be contributing.
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• Jaw tension, clenching, or grinding
• Facial or neck tension
• Headaches or TMJ-related discomfort
• Poor sleep or waking unrefreshed
• Mouth breathing during sleep
• Open bite or relapse after braces
• Tongue thrust or low tongue posture
• Airway-related concerns
Therapy is gentle, progressive, and adapted to adult lifestyles.
Why Addressing Oral Function Matters
When the tongue, lips, jaw, and breathing patterns are not working in harmony, the body compensates.
Over time, this can impact:
• Facial development
• Airway health
• Sleep quality
• Posture and muscle tension
• Long-term dental stability
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Myofunctional therapy focuses on retraining function to support long-term balance and stability.
What the Functional Assessment Involves
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A functional assessment looks beyond teeth alone. It may include:
• Breathing patterns
• Tongue posture and mobility
• Oral rest posture
• Swallowing patterns
• Facial muscle function
• Sleep and airway considerations
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This allows therapy to be personalised to the individual.
Unsure if these symptoms apply to you or your child?