Posted on May 12th, 2023.

Imagine the smile on your child's face as they confidently express themselves through clear and fluent speech.

Communication plays a vital role in a child's development, but sometimes, certain disorders can hinder their progress. Some such conditions are orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs).

In this blog post, we'll explore what OMDs are, the signs in children, and why early intervention is crucial for speech development and overall well-being.

What are Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) and Who Can Help Me?

In the world of speech-language pathology, orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) refer to abnormal structures or movement of the muscles in the face and mouth. These disorders can impact various aspects of a child's oral and speech abilities. Speech-language pathologists are not the only professionals who diagnose and treat OMDs. Registered dental hygienists, dentists, and orthodontists can also provide this specialty service. Because OMDs may affect breathing, eating, and speaking, a care team might include other specialists such as an ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor), allergist, or sleep specialist. A comprehensive care team will ensure that the underlying cause of your child's OMD is adequately addressed so that your child's overall health is optimized.

How to Recognize the Signs of OMDs in Children

Early identification of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) in children is crucial for prompt speech-therapy intervention and effective treatment. By recognizing the signs, parents and caregivers can take the necessary steps to seek professional help.

Here are some key signs to look out for:

1. Mouth Breathing

One common sign of OMDs in children is persistent mouth breathing, where they primarily breathe through their mouths instead of their noses. This can lead to improper tongue posture and affect speech development. Children may also exhibit dry lips and a tendency to snore during sleep.

2. Tongue Thrusting

Tongue thrusting is a habit where the tongue pushes against or between the front teeth during swallowing or at rest. This can impact dental alignment, speech production, and swallowing patterns. If you notice your child consistently thrusting their tongue forward, it may indicate an underlying OMD.

3. Open Mouth Resting Posture

Children with OMDs may habitually rest with their mouths open, rather than keeping them closed naturally. This can be accompanied by symptoms such as dry lips, dental issues, and difficulties with speech and swallowing. If your child frequently rests with an open mouth, it is advisable to seek professional evaluation.

4. Speech Sound Errors

OMDs can affect a child's ability to produce certain speech sounds correctly. If you notice persistent difficulties in speech sound production beyond the expected age, such as lisping or distortions, it may indicate an underlying OMD. Speech-language pathologists can assess the nature and severity of the speech sound errors to determine if an OMD is a contributing factor.

5. Feeding and Swallowing Challenges

Children with OMD may experience difficulties with feeding and swallowing. They may struggle with chewing food effectively, exhibit excessive drooling, or display aversions to certain food textures. These challenges can arise from impaired oral motor function associated with OMDs. If you observe persistent feeding and swallowing issues, it is essential to seek professional evaluation and support.

Being aware of these signs can help you identify potential OMD concerns in your child. If you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your child's speech and oral function, it is advisable to consult with a qualified speech-language pathologist for a comprehensive evaluation and guidance on appropriate intervention strategies. Early detection and intervention offer the best opportunities for positive outcomes and improved communication abilities for your child. Let's see why this matters.

Related: How Does Tryumph Speech Therapy Evaluate and Treat Speech Delay? 

Why Early Intervention for OMDs Matters

Early intervention is paramount when it comes to addressing orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) in children. Here's why taking action at the earliest signs is crucial for their speech and overall development:

1. Correcting Habits: OMDs often stem from incorrect oral habits such as thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or prolonged bottle feeding. By identifying and addressing these habits early on, speech-language pathologists can help children establish proper oral muscle function and prevent further complications.
2. Promoting Speech Development: OMDs can significantly impact a child's speech production and clarity. Early intervention through speech therapy can target specific speech sound errors, improve articulation, and enhance overall speech intelligibility. This enables children to effectively communicate their needs, thoughts, and ideas to others.
3. Preventing Dental Issues: OMDs can have a direct impact on dental health, leading to malocclusion, misalignment of teeth, and orthodontic problems. Addressing OMDs early can help prevent or minimize these dental complications, reducing the need for extensive orthodontic treatments in the future.
4. Improving Sleep Quality and Overall Health: Poor sleep quality is common with OMDs, and lack of good sleep can lead to other mental or physical complications. By addressing how breathing is complicated by OMDs, children can get more restful sleep that is necessary for overall growth and brain development.
5. Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem: Clear and effective communication is vital for a child's self-confidence and self-esteem. By providing early intervention for OMDs, speech-language pathologists empower children to overcome speech challenges, feel more confident in expressing themselves, and participate actively in academic and social environments.

Related: Fluency Disorder: What Is It & How To Treat It? 

The Bottom Line: Trust Tryumph Speech Therapy for Early Intervention

Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) can have a significant impact on a child's speech, breathing, swallowing, and overall well-being. Recognizing the signs early and seeking intervention from a qualified speech-language pathologist is crucial for effective treatment and positive outcomes.

At Tryumph Speech Therapy, we understand the impact that orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) can have on a child's speech and overall development. Our individualized approach ensures that each child receives tailored therapy based on their unique needs and goals. We utilize evidence-based techniques and engaging activities to make therapy sessions enjoyable and effective. By working closely with parents and caregivers, we create a collaborative environment that promotes continuous progress and success.

If you notice any signs of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) in your child, reach out to us today at (512) 898-9858 or email [email protected]. Our experienced speech-language pathologist is ready to guide your child towards improved speech, language, and overall communication skills.

Don't wait to transform 'try' into TRYUMPH! Together, let's unlock your child's potential and help them communicate with confidence and clarity.