Our facial features, jaw, teeth and gums are all directly affected by the forces of our facial muscles. Improper oral rest position of the face and tongue can contribute to many dental complications including incorrect bite, decay, gum disease, wear/chipped teeth, and crooked teeth.

The need for orthodontics in today’s children is very common. Also common is orthodontic RELAPSE. Meaning the teeth simply start to move back once the orthodontics are removed. You need to address the dysfunction along with orthodontics for lasting results.

Improper oral rest posture, mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, clenching can contribute to TMJ disfunction and orofacial pain.

Pain is different for everyone and may not completely resolve with any one modality but identifying which muscles are in dysfunction and working on balance and relieving tension are essential in resolving orofacial pain.

There are a variety of breathing related sleep disorders that disturb restful and restorative sleep. Improper oral rest position, and mouth breathing can severely reduce the quality of sleep. Poor sleep can have numerous negative impacts on our health and mental wellness. Poor sleep contributes to weight gain, anxiety, cognitive decline, diabetes, poor immune and cardiovascular health.

If speech therapy is not resolving the issues it is wise to look at possible underlying OMD’s. These may include tethered oral tissues, tongue thrusts or other OMD’s which have affected the form and function of the oral cavity.

Breathing is essential to all our bodies systems. We are meant to breathe primarily through our nose. Mouth breathing does not filter contaminates, humidify or aid in the release of nitric oxide which is essential in transporting oxygen to our cells.

Poor ergonomics such as slouching, leaning, looking down at electronics for extended times can all contribute to forward head posture. Research is also now revealing concerns with tongue ties and airway can be found in people with forward head posture.

For every inch the ear sits in front of the shoulders it adds 10 pounds of weight and strain on the neck and shoulders.

Thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, blanket/clothing suckling can negatively impact the growth and development of the oral cavity and disturb proper oral rest position. These habits can also be indicators for an underlying airway concern.

Improper chewing and swallowing can contribute to excessive gas, hiccups, stomach aches and pains, and acid reflux.

Improper use of the orofacial muscles can contribute to unpleasant features such as asymmetry and wrinkles.