What is
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?
Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is physical therapy that is highly effective in addressing the root cause of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) by retraining and strengthening oral and facial muscles.
This is achieved through neruoplasticity, which is when the brain changes through growth and reorganization of its neural networks.
Fundamental Goals of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
1.
Eliminate Noxious
Oral Habits
2.
Master Proper
Oral Rest Posture
3.
Habituate Proper Swallowing
Technique
4.
Long-Term
Retention
What is an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder (OMD)?
An OMD is a disorder that causes improper development, rest posture and/or functioning of the orofacial complex — the muscles of the jaw, lips, tongue, soft palate, and larynx.
The easiest way to break it down is to say, anything that prevents the mouth and face from developing, functioning and/or resting properly is an OMD. This directly impacts breathing, eating, speaking, sleeping and inhibits thriving in overall health and wellness.
We are here to help.
Here is a list of some common signs and symptoms of OMDs
Open Mouth
Rest Posture
Snoring / Sleep Concerns
Tethered Oral Tissues (tongue-tie / lip-tie)
Crowded / Misaligned Teeth
Articulation Concerns
Thumb Sucking (or other noxious oral habit)
Jaw Pain Clenching / Grinding
About me
Heather Wolframe graduated from Confederation College with honours from the Dental Hygiene Diploma Program in 2008; earning an academic achievement award. She spent her first five years of practice in Calgary, AB in a technologically advanced general practice furthering her skills and knowledge while serving the people in her community.
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Shortly after relocating back to her hometown of Thunder Bay, ON, she ventured out independently as the CEO/Director of Go Smile Inc. to serve those in need of better access to dental hygiene care. She much enjoyed her time offering dental hygiene services to individuals living in remote Northern Communities at the Wequedong Lodge. Her next undertaking was her 4-year involvement with the rebirth of the St Joseph’s Care Group dental clinic; where she was an interdisciplinary team member with the Mental Health Rehabilitation Program at St Joseph’s Hospital.
My Approach
Each person is unique and is on their own individual pathway; which is why it is crucial to take the time to understand how each person has arrived at where they are today. Assessing orofacial anatomy and physiology in correlation to identifying past and current noxious oral habits, enables us to work together to identify and address how to set and achieve goals for tomorrow.
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