What Is Myofunctional Therapy—and How Can It Help with Breathing, Speech, and Jaw Tension?
Schie Health | Speech Therapy Virginia Beach
If you or your child struggles with mouth breathing, jaw pain, or unclear speech, the problem may lie deeper than just "bad habits." Myofunctional disorders are surprisingly common—and often overlooked. At Schie Health, we specialize in myofunctional therapy as part of our speech-language pathology services to support better breathing, posture, and orofacial health.
What Is a Myofunctional Disorder?
A myofunctional disorder affects the muscles of the face, mouth, and tongue—impacting how we breathe, swallow, chew, and speak. Common signs include:
Mouth breathing (especially during sleep)
Tongue thrust
Jaw clenching or grinding
Speech distortions (like lisping)
TMJ or facial tension
Orthodontic relapse
These issues can develop in children, teens, and adults and often go untreated for years.
How Myofunctional Therapy Works
Our speech therapists use gentle exercises to retrain the muscles of the tongue, lips, and face. Therapy may include:
Tongue posture correction
Nasal breathing training
Swallow pattern modification
Jaw and facial muscle strengthening
Speech sound support (when needed)
It’s like physical therapy—but for your face, mouth, and airway — for ages 6 and older.
Did you know that it helps relieve facial pain, correct long-standing dysfunction, and reduce reliance on devices like night guards or CPAPs?
Who Should Consider It?
This therapy is ideal if you or your child has:
Had braces (or will soon)
Experienced TMJ or jaw pain
Trouble with nasal breathing
Chronic snoring or poor sleep
Ongoing speech or swallowing challenges
At Schie Health, We Combine Science and Support
We don’t just “treat symptoms”—we help you understand the why behind your body’s patterns. Our therapy is evidence-based, insurance-friendly, and personalized for every age.
