What Does a Myofunctional Therapist Do? A Guide for Families in Ogden & Northern Utah

If you've recently heard the words myofunctional therapy from your dentist, orthodontist, ENT, or another provider, you might be wondering, "what exactly does a myofunctional therapist do?" It's a great question! Orofacial myofunctional therapy focuses on the muscles and functions of the mouth, face, and jaw. We look at things like how the tongue rests, how you breathe, how you swallow, and how your lips, cheeks, and jaw work together. At Breath Restored, I work with both children and adults in Weber County, and throughout Northern Utah to help identify and improve these patterns.

One of the things I love about myofunctional therapy is that every person is a little different. During an evaluation, I look at the whole picture rather than focusing on just one symptom. Maybe your child is a chronic mouth breather, sleeps with their mouth open, has a tongue thrust, or struggles with certain oral habits. Maybe you're an adult who has been dealing with an open-mouth posture, difficulty keeping your tongue in the proper resting position, or concerns related to breathing or sleep. These patterns can sometimes be connected, and understanding why they are happening is an important first step.

Myofunctional therapy can also be one piece of a bigger team of care. You may have been referred by your dentist or orthodontist, or perhaps an ENT has recommended that you look into therapy. Depending on your needs, I may work alongside other professionals who are involved in your care. My goal isn't to simply give you a list of exercises and send you on your way. We work together to build functional habits that can eventually become part of your everyday life--things like proper tongue posture, nasal breathing, lip closure, chewing, and swallowing.

If you're looking for a myofunctional therapist in Ogden or Northern Utah, I know that starting something new can feel a little overwhelming. My approach at Breath Restored is centered around education, individualized care, and helping you understand what is happening in your own body, or your child's. I'm located in Pleasant View and serve families throughout Weber County communities, with virtual options available for patients who prefer that style of care.

If you're wondering whether myofunctional therapy might be a good fit for you or your child, I'd love to help you learn more. Take a look at my myofunctional therapy services or reach out to schedule an evaluation.