Orthodontic work is a common treatment that many children receive to correct the alignment of their teeth and improve their oral health. However, in some cases, children may require additional support to ensure that their orthodontic treatment is successful. Myofunctional therapy is one such support option that can be highly beneficial for children who require orthodontic work. Here are some of the reasons why:
Improved Jaw Alignment: Myofunctional therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles in the mouth and face, which can help to improve jaw alignment. When these muscles are strong and balanced, the jaw can move more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of orthodontic relapse. This means that children who receive myofunctional therapy alongside their orthodontic treatment are more likely to experience long-term success.
Better Breathing: Myofunctional therapy can also help children to breathe more efficiently. This is important because breathing difficulties can contribute to a range of orthodontic problems, such as narrow arches, crowding, and other issues. By improving breathing, myofunctional therapy can help to reduce these problems, which can make orthodontic treatment more effective.
Reduced Reliance on Orthodontic Appliances: When children receive orthodontic treatment, they are typically fitted with appliances such as braces or aligners. While these appliances are highly effective at correcting alignment issues, they can be uncomfortable and inconvenient for children to wear. Myofunctional therapy can help to reduce the reliance on these appliances by improving jaw alignment and strengthening the muscles in the mouth and face. This means that children may be able to complete their orthodontic treatment more quickly or with fewer appliances, making the process more comfortable and convenient.
Improved Oral Health: Myofunctional therapy can also improve children's oral health by promoting better oral habits. For example, therapy can help to address habits such as thumb-sucking, which can contribute to orthodontic problems. By improving oral habits, myofunctional therapy can help children to maintain better oral health and reduce their risk of future orthodontic issues.
Non-Invasive Treatment: Myofunctional therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for children who require orthodontic work. This means that it is a safe and effective option for children who may be uncomfortable with other treatment options, such as surgery. It also means that myofunctional therapy can be used alongside other treatments to provide comprehensive support for children's orthodontic needs.
In conclusion, myofunctional therapy can be highly beneficial for children who require orthodontic work. By improving jaw alignment, breathing, and oral habits, and reducing the reliance on orthodontic appliances, myofunctional therapy can help to ensure the success of orthodontic treatment and improve children's oral health overall. If you are considering orthodontic treatment for your child, it is worth speaking to your orthodontist about whether myofunctional therapy may be a useful addition to their treatment plan.
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