Myofunctional Disorders
Myofunctional disorders affect the muscles of the mouth, jaw and face. They can influence speech, swallowing and tooth alignment – and can be significantly improved with targeted myofunctional therapy (MFT).
What are myofunctional disorders?
A myofunctional disorder is an imbalance of the orofacial muscles – the muscles of the lips, tongue, cheeks and jaw. The most common presentation is a visceral swallowing pattern ("tongue thrust"): when swallowing, the tongue pushes against or between the teeth rather than against the palate.
Mouth breathing, weak lip tone and an incorrect tongue resting position often accompany this pattern. Together these can affect tooth alignment, speech and facial development.
Common causes
- Short tongue or lip frenulum (frenulum breve)
- Mouth breathing due to allergies, enlarged adenoids or chronic sinusitis
- Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use
- Early baby tooth loss or dental problems
- Malocclusion or orthodontic irregularities
Effects and signs
An untreated myofunctional disorder can affect several areas over time:
- Persistent mouth breathing
- Increased saliva flow
- Tooth alignment: open bite, crowding or frontal tooth contact
- Swallowing: food and liquid not transported physiologically
- Jaw joint: tension and dysfunction
- Facial development: altered muscle forces during growth
Collaboration with orthodontics and dentistry
Myofunctional disorders are often treated in collaboration with orthodontists and dentists, since tongue and swallowing patterns directly influence the outcome of orthodontic treatment.
Our practice rooms are located within the Lachhansa Praxis Erding. As an independent practice we collaborate closely with the orthodontics and paediatric dentistry teams there – short communication paths and direct coordination for shared patients.
Our approach
We begin with a thorough assessment: tongue resting position, swallowing pattern, lip tone and breathing.
Myofunctional therapy consists of targeted exercises for the tongue, lips, cheeks and chewing muscles. The goal is to learn and automate physiological movement patterns – playfully for children, functionally for adults.
Therapy process
- 1Initial consultation and case history
- 2Orofacial assessment
- 3Therapy plan and goal-setting
- 4Exercise phase: tongue, lips, chewing muscles
- 5Transfer: automating physiological patterns in daily life
- 6Final review and follow-up
Frequently asked questions
From what age is myofunctional therapy appropriate?
MFT exercises are possible from around age 2, depending on severity. For a short lingual frenulum (tongue tie), treatment can be appropriate as early as infancy, before formal MFT exercises begin. The earlier a disorder is identified and treated, the less impact it has on teeth, jaw and speech.
What does MFT have to do with orthodontics?
An incorrect swallowing pattern or low tongue resting position can jeopardise orthodontic results or cause relapse. Many orthodontists therefore recommend accompanying myofunctional therapy alongside braces or aligners.
Does orthodontic treatment need to happen at the same time?
Not necessarily – MFT can be helpful before, during or after orthodontic treatment. We coordinate directly with the treating orthodontist if needed.
Does health insurance cover the costs?
Yes – with a doctor's prescription (Heilmittelverordnung), statutory health insurers cover the therapy costs. Referrals can be obtained from ENT doctors, paediatricians or dentists.
Ready for the next step?
Book your first appointment online or get in touch with our practice in Erding.