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WHAT IS MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY?

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a non-invasive treatment option for orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs), which are abnormalities in lip, jaw, or tongue position while at rest, during swallowing or speech.

 

Examples of OMDs include:

  • Repetitive oral habits such as thumb or finger sucking

  • Habitual open-mouth resting posture (lips apart)

  • Resting tongue posture between or against the teeth

  • Tongue thrust swallowing pattern

These OMDs contribute to many medical and dental problems including:

  • Malocclusion (poor alignment of teeth) 

  • Orthodontic relapse

  • Periodontal disease

  • Chewing/swallowing/feeding disorders

  • Abnormal jaw growth and position

  • TMD (jaw pain)

  • Low facial tone

  • Restricted airway!

  • Myofunctional therapy coverage can differ significantly across insurance plans, as many insurance companies are not yet familiar with it.

  • You will receive a "superbill" to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. You may need to provide documentation of medical need, such as a letter from a doctor or oral surgeon requesting myofunctional therapy to treat sleep apnea or related conditions.  A "Letter of Medical Necessity" prompt will be given upon request.

  • In most cases, you may be able to use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flex Spending account to cover the cost of myofunctional therapy

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