If you suffer from any of the wide range of TMD symptoms, schedule an comprehensive TMJ exam with Dr. Maryam Motlagh.
As needed, we use advanced diagnostic modalities such as computerized jaw analysis, sonography, electromyography (EMG) or CT scans so we can evaluate your jaw function, muscle activity and TMJ health more thoroughly.
The TMJ treatment process is different for everyone. We start with a comprehensive exam to find the root cause of the problem and often address the issue with a multidisciplinary approach, bringing other specialists on board to decide the best treatment plan.
For the first 3 months we focus on non-invasive techniques to reprogram and relax the jaw muscles using functional oral appliances. Once the TMJ symptoms are alleviated, the patient has the option to use the appliances long term, transition into orthodontic treatment for long term stability or receive restorative treatment as needed.
MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY IN PORTLAND, OR
Have you ever wondered if there's a natural, effective solution to combat sleepless nights, daily discomfort, or your child's speech and eating challenges? At Aesthetic Smiles, we turn that possibility into reality through the power of myofunctional therapy.
Picture yourself enjoying deep, restful sleep, confidently engaging in conversations, savoring meals without discomfort, and witnessing the transformative progress in your child's abilities. It's achievable, and our professionals are eager to guide you on this exciting journey. With our innovative, scientifically-backed myofunctional therapy services, we're changing lives. Learn more when you speak with Aesthetic Smiles today!
WHAT IS MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY?
Myofunctional therapy is a treatment focusing on tongue, facial, and throat exercises. It’s physical therapy for your mouth! This program will make a significant positive impact on your overall health and well-being for life.
The four goals of myofunctional therapy are ensuring nasal breathing both day and night, maintaining a proper lip seal, training the tongue to rest fully in the palate, and establishing correct chewing and swallowing patterns.
ARE YOU A CANDIDATE?
Are you experiencing any of these symptoms?
● Mouth Breathing
● Daytime Tiredness
● Speech Problems
● Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome
● Snoring
● Sleep Apnea
● Bed-Wetting
● Tongue Thrusting
● Difficulty Chewing/Swallowing
● Allergies
● Headaches
● Asthma
● Bad Breath
● Neck & Shoulder Postural Issues
● Digestive Issues - Gas, IBS
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
The way in which we supply our body with oxygen is a critical component of a healthy life. Myofunctional therapy will focus on correct breathing techniques, tongue positioning, and proper chewing and swallowing patterns, all of which can lead to better concentration, more energy, and enhanced sleep. Retraining the facial muscles and tongue will ensure proper facial growth and appearance.
Incorrect breathing techniques lead to many health issues in this modern society. Mouth breathing is an abnormal mode of breathing that creates a cascade of negative symptoms that can impact our overall health. Through learning to nasal breathe both day and night, patients can drastically reduce or eliminate many health issues such as snoring, upper airway resistance syndrome, sleep apnea, headaches, allergies, and chronic fatigue.
Here is a deeper dive into the benefits of our myofunctional therapy services:
● Better Sleep: By improving breathing patterns, the therapy can potentially alleviate sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or snoring.
● Enhances Speech: It can help correct speech issues by strengthening the tongue and facial muscles involved in articulation.
● Improves Facial Development: In children, myofunctional therapy can guide the growth and development of facial structures, leading to better alignment and symmetry.
● Helps with Digestive Issues: Proper chewing and swallowing, which are part of myofunctional therapy, can aid digestion.
● Alleviates Pain: It can help reduce symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) and other forms of orofacial pain.
● Promotes Proper Oral Posture: The therapy encourages a correct resting position for the tongue, lips, and jaw, which may prevent future oral health issues.
● Improves Oral Hygiene: By enhancing saliva flow and swallowing, myofunctional therapy can improve oral hygiene and reduce the risk of dental problems.
EXAMPLES OF MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY EXERCISES
Myofunctional therapy exercises are designed to strengthen and retrain the muscles of the face and mouth, promoting optimal oral health and overall well-being. It is important to note that these exercises should be performed under the guidance of a trained professional. Incorrect practice can lead to further complications. Here, we provide a glimpse into the exercises involved, but remember - always consult with your myofunctional therapist for detailed and step-by-step breakdowns of exercises that are right for you.
1. Tongue Stretch: This exercise helps improve tongue mobility and flexibility. Start by sticking out your tongue as far as it can go. Try to touch your chin with the tip of your tongue. Hold this position for about 5 seconds, then relax. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
2. Cheek Puff: This exercise strengthens your cheek muscles. Begin by taking a deep breath and filling your cheeks with air, as if you were blowing a balloon. Hold this position for about 5 seconds before slowly releasing the air. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
3. Lip Seal: This exercise helps train your lips to remain closed comfortably. Start by placing a small mirror in front of you. Close your lips gently without straining them. The goal is to achieve a seal where the upper and lower lips meet without any effort. Practice this for 5 minutes every day.
4. Swallowing Exercise: This exercise helps correct swallowing patterns. Begin by placing a tiny piece of bread on your tongue. Without chewing, try to swallow the bread while keeping your teeth together and lips apart. This exercise can be challenging at first and should be performed under the guidance of a therapist.
HOW LONG DOES MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY TAKE?
The duration of myofunctional therapy varies significantly depending on each individual's specific needs and circumstances. Typically, a complete course of therapy can range from a few months to over a year. Factors influencing this timeline include the complexity of the case, the patient’s age, their commitment to the exercises, and how consistently they practice. Remember, no matter the timeframe, the goal is lasting improvement in oral function and overall health, which is well worth the time and effort invested.
REAP THE BENEFITS OF OUR MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY SERVICES TODAY!
Myofunctional therapy is a transformative journey, and at Aesthetic Smiles, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way. We are ready to help you harness the power of these exercises to improve your oral function, overall health, and quality of life.
But that's not all! Are you looking for a smile that feels great and looks amazing, too? Leverage our smile makeovers that give you the radiant, confident smile you've always dreamed of. And for those seeking to combine health with aesthetic enhancement, our Botox dentistry services