Jacksonville Myofunctional Therapy
When your child struggles with feeding difficulties, speech delays, or dental issues, the underlying cause might be something you’ve never heard of: a lip tie. This common condition affects how the upper lip connects to the gums, potentially impacting everything from breastfeeding in infancy to proper oral development as your child grows. Understanding what a lip tie is and why myofunctional therapy is necessary can make a world of difference in your child’s growth and lifelong oral health.
At Airway Dental and More, we understand every child deserves the best possible start in life. Dr. Neil K. Stevenson, DMD, combines his experience in general and pediatric dentistry with a deep understanding of airway-focused care to help children overcome the challenges that lip ties can create. At our Jacksonville airway dental practice, our comprehensive approach includes myofunctional therapy, a specialized treatment that can significantly impact your child’s development and overall well-being.
Understanding Lip Ties and Their Impact
A lip tie, or frenulum, occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the upper jaw, called the frenulum, is too tight or thick. This restriction can limit the lip’s movement and create challenges that extend far beyond what you might initially expect. The condition can affect infants during breastfeeding, making it difficult for them to create a proper seal around the nipple, leading to feeding difficulties and maternal discomfort. The CDC reports that approximately 8% of children ages 3-17 have a communication disorder, with many cases linked to structural issues that affect speech development.
As children grow, an untreated lip tie can contribute to speech difficulties, particularly with sounds that require precise coordination of the tongue and lips. The restricted movement may also affect dental development, potentially leading to gaps between the front teeth or contributing to gum recession. In some cases, a lip tie can even impact breathing patterns, as children may develop compensatory habits that affect their overall oral health.
Early identification and treatment of lip ties can prevent these issues from becoming more serious concerns. When parents notice feeding difficulties in infants, speech delays in toddlers, or dental problems in older children, a lip tie evaluation should be considered as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Airway and Family Dentistry Financing Available
Comprehensive airway treatments and family dental care with flexible financing to improve your health and smile.
How Myofunctional Therapy Addresses Lip Ties
Myofunctional therapy involves exercises that strengthen the oral and facial muscles while teaching proper tongue and lip positioning. This specialized therapy approach helps children develop the muscle memory and coordination needed for optimal oral function. The therapy focuses on retraining the muscles to work together effectively, which can significantly improve outcomes, whether used alone or in combination with other treatments.
During myofunctional therapy sessions, children learn specific exercises designed to improve lip mobility, tongue strength, and overall oral coordination. These exercises are often presented as games or fun activities, making the process engaging for young patients. The therapy also addresses breathing patterns, helping children transition from mouth breathing to healthier nasal breathing habits.
Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy for Lip Ties
Myofunctional therapy offers numerous advantages for children with lip ties. For example, it can improve feeding efficiency in infants, making breastfeeding more comfortable for both mother and child. For older children, the exercises help develop clearer speech patterns and better articulation skills.
Myofunctional therapy also supports proper dental development by encouraging correct tongue positioning and reducing harmful oral habits.
Children who undergo myofunctional therapy often experience improved sleep quality, as the treatment addresses breathing pattern disorders that can affect rest. Additionally, the therapy can help prevent the need for more extensive treatments later in life by addressing functional issues early.
The Treatment Process
The myofunctional therapy process begins with a comprehensive evaluation to assess your child’s specific needs and challenges. During this assessment, we examine oral function, breathing patterns, and any compensatory habits that may have developed. This thorough evaluation helps us create a plan of action that addresses your child’s unique situation.
Treatment typically involves regular therapy sessions, during which your child learns and practices specific exercises to improve their condition. These sessions are designed to be age-appropriate and engaging, helping children develop the skills they need while enjoying the process. Home exercises are also an important component, allowing children to practice their new skills between appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Myofunctional Therapy
Here are two questions we commonly get asked about myofunctional therapy:
Is Myofunctional Therapy Covered By Insurance?
Insurance coverage for myofunctional therapy varies significantly depending on your specific plan and the reason for treatment. Some insurance providers may cover portions of the therapy when it is deemed medically necessary, particularly when related to feeding difficulties, speech development, or breathing issues. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits and coverage options. Our team can also help you understand the treatment costs and discuss payment options to make care accessible for your family.
How Long Does Myofunctional Therapy Take?
The duration of myofunctional therapy depends on several factors, including the degree of the lip tie, your child’s age, and their individual response to treatment. Most children begin to see improvements within the first few weeks of consistent therapy, although the complete treatment process typically ranges from several weeks to several months. During your initial evaluation, we will provide a more specific timeline based on your child’s unique needs and establish realistic expectations for their treatment journey.
Supporting Your Child's Future
Early intervention with myofunctional therapy can set the groundwork for a lifetime of better oral health and function. By addressing lip ties and their associated challenges during childhood, we help prevent more serious issues from developing later in life. The skills and habits learned through myofunctional therapy continue to benefit children as they grow, supporting their overall health and well-being.
If you suspect your child may have a lip tie or if you’ve noticed feeding difficulties, speech delays, or other oral health concerns, we encourage you to seek a professional evaluation. Early assessment and treatment can significantly impact your child’s development and overall quality of life. Contact Airway Dental and More at (904) 268-4466 or visit our contact form to schedule a consultation and learn more about how myofunctional therapy can help your child.
