Myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional therapy represents a groundbreaking approach in orthodontics, emphasizing the correction of improper oral habits that often lead to dental and jaw issues even before all permanent teeth are present. At Miles of Smiles, we integrate this innovative therapy with the Myobrace® system, a comprehensive treatment strategy designed for children as young as three facing challenges such as:

• Chapped or dry lips
• Poor posture
• Crowded or misaligned teeth
• Speech issues
• Chronic thumb or finger sucking
• Improper tongue positioning
• Tired or baggy eyes
• A gummy smile

The core of myofunctional therapy lies in addressing the root causes of crooked teeth and misaligned jaws, which are often related to poor myofunctional habits. These habits include incorrect tongue positioning, mouth breathing and improper swallowing patterns. Traditional orthodontics focuses mainly on the symptoms by straightening teeth, often overlooking these underlying causes.

Our use of the Myobrace system aligns perfectly with the principles of myofunctional therapy. Myobrace is an advanced orthodontic solution that goes beyond mere teeth alignment. It aims to retrain the oral muscles and establish correct breathing, swallowing and tongue posture. By wearing the Myobrace appliance for just one hour during the day and overnight, children can naturally develop better oral habits. This not only aids in aligning teeth into their proper position but also promotes healthy jaw development and overall oral health.

Moreover, the Myobrace system is customized to each child’s specific needs. It includes a series of intra-oral appliances and a set of activities focused on breathing, tongue, swallowing, lip and cheek exercises. These exercises, also known as Myobrace activities, are integral to reinforcing the positive changes brought about by the appliance.

Incorporating myofunctional therapy with Myobrace in our practice offers a more holistic and effective approach to orthodontics. It aligns teeth naturally, ensures proper jaw development and instills lifelong healthy oral habits in children, setting a foundation for a healthier smile and overall well-being.

If you have any questions about myofunctional therapy in Temecula and Hemet, California, and would like to schedule a consultation with our orthodontists, Dr. Tal Jergensen or Dr. Scott Hope, please call us at 951-693-9373.