What Is Myofunctional Orthodontics? The Link Between Muscles and Teeth

When most people think of orthodontics, they picture braces or clear aligners. But the position of the teeth is not determined by mechanical forces alone. The tongue, lips and cheek muscles exert constant pressure on the teeth through thousands of daily repetitions of swallowing, speaking and breathing. Myofunctional orthodontics places this reality at the centre of treatment.

What Is Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional therapy is an exercise-based approach that re-trains the function of oral and facial muscles. It works on tongue tone, swallowing pattern, lip closure and breathing. When applied alongside orthodontic treatment, it can both shorten treatment duration and improve long-term outcomes.

Why Is the Tongue So Important?

For the tongue to rest against the palate in its resting position is critical for healthy development of the upper jaw. Low tongue tone or tongue thrust can cause the front teeth to separate (open bite) and the upper jaw to narrow. Applying only mechanical correction without addressing this issue at the muscular level can lay the groundwork for the teeth returning to their former positions (relapse) after treatment.

Who Is It Suitable For?

Myofunctional treatment or exercise programmes are frequently recommended in the following situations:

• Children and adults with tongue thrust
• Those experiencing open bite or recurring relapse
• People with mouth-breathing habits
• Professional speech difficulties (lisp)
• People with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)

How Does Treatment Work?

Therapy is generally carried out with the support of a myofunctional therapist. It involves short, regular sessions and home exercises. The orthodontist synchronises appliance treatment with these exercises. While the process varies from person to person, it typically lasts 6–18 months.

The Myofunctional Approach at The Growth Institute

Every patient assessment at our clinic is conducted with a holistic perspective that includes muscle function. By integrating myofunctional assessment findings into our orthodontic planning, we aim for outcomes that are not merely aesthetic, but functional and lasting. For children in the growth years, early assessment is the most important step in this process.