Restoring Proper Oral Function for Better Health

At Naos Physical and Occupational Therapy, we specialize in orofacial myofunctional therapy to help patients improve breathing, swallowing, chewing, tongue strength, and jaw function. Our holistic, evidence-based approach targets the root causes of oral dysfunction, ensuring long-term results for both children and adults.

We collaborate with primary care physicians, dentists, orthodontists, ENT specialists, and speech-language pathologists to provide comprehensive care and optimize outcomes for our patients.

What is Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional therapy is a specialized treatment that optimizes the function of the tongue, lips, jaw, and facial muscles using:

  • Therapeutic exercises to retrain oral muscles

  • Habit elimination to correct thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, and mouth breathing

  • Breathing and posture training to enhance airway function

  • Neuromuscular re-education to improve swallowing, chewing, and tongue mobility

By addressing these issues, myofunctional therapy helps patients achieve better oral function, facial growth, and overall well-being.

Signs & Symptoms of OMDs

Mouth Breathing or Open-Mouth Posture
Chronic mouth breathing, especially during sleep or rest

Snoring, Sleep Apnea, or Restless Sleep
Frequent nighttime disruptions or fatigue from poor-quality sleep

Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
Bruxism symptoms causing jaw pain or tooth wear

Jaw Pain, Clicking, or Popping
Signs of TMJ dysfunction or muscle imbalance

Frequent Ear Infections or Upper Respiratory Issues
Ongoing ENT issues possibly linked to poor oral function

Dental Crowding, Orthodontic Relapse, or Misaligned Bite (Malocclusion)
Relapse after braces or difficulty achieving proper bite alignment

Tongue or Lip Ties Affecting Function
Limited mobility affecting speech, eating, or sleep

Difficulty with Swallowing or Speech
Messy eating, speech articulation problems, or inefficient swallowing

If you or your child experience these symptoms, early intervention with myofunctional therapy can prevent long-term complications and improve overall health.

Signs & Symptoms of OMDs

Mouth Breathing or Open-Mouth Posture
Chronic mouth breathing, especially during sleep or rest

Snoring, Sleep Apnea, or Restless Sleep
Frequent nighttime disruptions or fatigue from poor-quality sleep

Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
Bruxism symptoms causing jaw pain or tooth wear

Jaw Pain, Clicking, or Popping
Signs of TMJ dysfunction or muscle imbalance

Frequent Ear Infections or Upper Respiratory Issues
Ongoing ENT issues possibly linked to poor oral function

Dental Crowding, Orthodontic Relapse, or Misaligned Bite (Malocclusion)
Relapse after braces or difficulty achieving proper bite alignment

Tongue or Lip Ties Affecting Function
Limited mobility affecting speech, eating, or sleep

Difficulty with Swallowing or Speech
Messy eating, speech articulation problems, or inefficient swallowing

If you or your child experience these symptoms, early intervention with myofunctional therapy can prevent long-term complications and improve overall health.

Why Choose Naos Physical and Occupational Therapy?

  • One-on-One Private Treatment Sessions – Focused, distraction-free care
  • Root Cause Treatment Approach – Addressing the source of dysfunction, not just symptoms
  • Expert Collaboration – Working with dental, medical, and therapy professionals
  • Convenient Location in Vestavia Hills, AL – Serving Birmingham, Hoover, Homewood, and surrounding areas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know if I or my child needs myofunctional therapy?
If you or your child experience mouth breathing, sleep issues, speech difficulties, or jaw pain, an evaluation can determine if therapy is needed.

Can adults benefit from myofunctional therapy?
Yes! Many adults with TMJ pain, sleep apnea, or facial tension see significant improvement.

Is myofunctional therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage varies—contact us to check your benefits.

What is an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder (OMD)?

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) affect the muscles and functions of the face, mouth, and airway. These disorders can impact:

  • Breathing and airway function (including sleep apnea)

  • Chewing, swallowing, and digestion

  • Speech and articulation

  • Jaw and facial development

  • TMJ function and facial aesthetics

Schedule Your Myofunctional Therapy Consultation Today

Don’t let oral dysfunction, airway issues, or TMJ pain affect your quality of life. Our expert therapists at Naos Physical and Occupational Therapy in Vestavia Hills, AL are here to help.