What is myofunctional training?
Myofunctional training uses practice to bring the movements of the tongue, lips, cheeks and breathing closer to a more natural pattern. Here is a simple explanation.
Muscles “push” on teeth too
Teeth stand between the lips and cheeks on the outside and the tongue on the inside. These muscles apply gentle force every day as we swallow, speak and breathe. When the forces inside and outside are balanced, teeth tend to line up more easily. When the position of the tongue or the strength of the lips is out of balance for a long time, the growth of the teeth and bones may also be affected.
What the training practises
- Correct tongue position: at rest, the tip of the tongue lightly touches the gum behind the upper front teeth.
- Natural lip closure: when relaxed, the lips rest lightly together.
- Nasal breathing: first make sure the nose is clear, then practise.
- Correct swallowing: the tongue does not push forward on the teeth when swallowing.
How it is done
- It is usually guided by a clinician or trained professional and adjusted to the child.
- It includes simple movement exercises, and appliances used as advised by the clinician.
- It takes time and daily practice, and needs the cooperation of the child and parents.
Good to know
- Myofunctional training does not replace a clinician’s diagnosis and treatment, and not every child needs it.
- Airway problems such as a blocked nose should be dealt with by a clinician first.
- Every child progresses at their own pace.
This page is for general health education and does not replace a clinician’s diagnosis or advice. Please use HIKARI as directed by your clinician.