Myofunctional Orthodontics
Straightening teeth by treating the muscles and habits that bent them.
What it is
Myofunctional orthodontics is the integration of traditional orthodontic tooth movement (braces, clear aligners, expanders) with treatment of the underlying soft-tissue and habit patterns that caused the malocclusion in the first place. These causes include low tongue posture, mouth breathing, abnormal swallowing patterns, thumb sucking, and prolonged pacifier use.
Why we do it
Conventional orthodontics moves teeth into a new position, but if the muscles around the teeth still push in their old patterns, the teeth tend to drift back. This is called orthodontic relapse, and it is the reason so many adults wear retainers indefinitely or redo orthodontics in their 40s. By addressing the muscular cause alongside the dental result, myofunctional orthodontics produces alignment that is more stable and that supports the airway rather than compromising it. Standard orthodontic extraction protocols can actually narrow the airway, the opposite of what an airway-focused practice wants.
What happens during the procedure
Treatment begins with a complete airway and orofacial myofunctional evaluation. A combined plan is built that may include palatal expansion, clear aligners or self-ligating braces, myofunctional therapy with a certified orofacial myologist, and (when indicated) frenectomy. The orthodontic and therapy phases run in parallel. The therapy retrains tongue posture, lip seal, and swallowing pattern so the new tooth positions are supported by the new muscle patterns.
Who it’s for
Children with developing malocclusion, particularly with mouth breathing, narrow arches, or open bite. Adolescents and adults seeking orthodontic treatment that also improves airway and function. Patients with prior orthodontic relapse looking for a more stable result the second time around.
Recovery and what to expect
There is no surgical recovery. Tooth soreness for two to three days after each appliance adjustment is normal. The therapy component requires consistent home practice (typically 5 to 10 minutes, twice a day) for the result to hold.