7 Signs Your Child Might Benefit from Orofacial Myology
Orofacial Myology (OM) focuses on the muscles of the face, mouth, and jaw. These muscles are essential for breathing, eating, speaking, and overall oral health. Early support can make a huge difference in your child’s development.
Here are some signs to watch for:
1. Mouth Breathing or Open Mouth Posture
If your child often breathes through their mouth instead of their nose, it can affect speech, sleep, and dental development. OM helps encourage correct tongue and lip posture.
2. Tongue Thrust or Low Tongue Resting Position
A tongue that pushes forward when swallowing or rests low in the mouth can cause speech and feeding challenges. Therapy helps strengthen tongue posture and coordination.
3. Speech Difficulties
If your child has unclear speech sounds or struggles to be understood, OM may help improve oral muscle function, making speech clearer.
4. Feeding and Swallowing Challenges
Choking, gagging, difficulty chewing, or slow eating can all signal oral muscle coordination issues. OM supports safe, efficient, and comfortable feeding.
5. Drooling Beyond Expected Age
While some drooling is normal in young children, persistent drooling can indicate weak lip or tongue control. OM exercises help strengthen these muscles.
6. Snoring or Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Mouth breathing and poor oral posture can contribute to snoring or disrupted sleep. OM can improve tongue and jaw positioning, supporting better airflow.
7. Dental Development Concerns
Issues like misaligned teeth or bite problems can sometimes be linked to oral muscle function. OM works alongside dentists or orthodontists to support healthy oral growth.
Why Early Support Matters
The earlier we address oral muscle patterns, the more likely children are to develop strong, coordinated, and functional skills for life. OM therapy is playful, practical, and tailored to each child.
How Day by Day Can Help
At Day by Day Early Intervention, our specialist therapists provide individualised Orofacial Myology therapy for children in Port Adelaide and surrounding western suburbs.
Contact us today to see if Orofacial Myology is right for your child.
A conversation doesn’t lock you into therapy it simply gives you clarity.
Want to learn more or book a consult?
📍 Port Adelaide
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: 0460 885 008
🌐 Visit: www.daybyday.kids
👉 Contact us to book an appointment or join our intake list.
