Orofacial Myology may also be referred to as Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy or just plain Myo.  Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders or OMD's may occur when atypical  patterns are established in the oral and facial muscles.  These may be caused by noxious oral habits (thumb sucking, over use of pacifier), tethered oral tissues (tongue tie), neurological deficits, developmental delays or genetics.  They may be characterized by forward tongue posture (tongue thrust) at rest or during swallowing, an open mouth posture or incorrect oral rest posture. 

A comprehensive assessment of the orofacial structure includes both oral motor and feeding.  If your child has not yet been seen by a dentist or ENT, your clinician may refer him or her out for further assessment. 

It is important to note that both children and adults may benefit from orofacial myofunctional therapy. Please see the attached check list to determine if you or a loved one may need to be assessed.

Hansen & Mason 2003