Myofunctional Therapy

"Myofunctional" refers to the functional activities of the muscles within the oral cavity and surrounding areas, including the face, mouth, and throat, all essential for breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Myofunctional therapy is a specialized treatment that focuses on improving the function and coordination of the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat. These muscles play a crucial role in breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speaking functions. When the muscles are not functioning optimally, it can lead to various issues, including TMJ disorders, sleep apnea, speech difficulties, and aesthetic concerns.

How does Myofunctional therapy work?

Myofunctional therapy involves a series of exercises and techniques designed to retrain and strengthen the muscles in and around the oral cavity. A trained myofunctional therapist will work closely with you to identify dysfunctional muscle patterns and create a customized plan to address them. The therapy aims to improve muscle strength, coordination, and balance, which can positively affect various aspects of your health and well-being.

What does myofunctional therapy treat?

Tongue thrusting
Incorrect swallowing patterns
Mouth breathing
Speech difficulties
Jaw misalignment
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues
Sleep apnea and snoring
Orthodontic issues
Facial muscle tension
Gum recession and dental problems

Your assessment

Our comprehensive assessment process is designed to provide a thorough understanding of your individual condition to create a tailored treatment plan. Dr. Amin Samadian and our experienced team will guide you through each step, ensuring the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The assessment includes:

Your consultation

During your first visit, we'll discuss your medical history, symptoms, and concerns. We will perform a detailed physical examination and may request diagnostic tests like sleep studies or imaging.

Diagnostic testing

Advanced diagnostics such as imaging, sleep studies, and diagnostic tools are utilized to gather precise data about your condition. These tests help us pinpoint the root causes of your symptoms.

Personalized treatment plan

Based on the assessment results, we will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This plan may include a combination of therapies, lifestyle modifications, and treatments to address your specific condition.

Collaborative approach

We believe in a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare. If needed, we collaborate with other medical professionals to ensure comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your health.

Education

We'll explain your diagnosis, treatment options, and the expected outcomes in a clear and understandable manner. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your health.

Treatment implementation

Once your personalized treatment plan is established, we'll guide you through each step of the process. Whether it's using oral appliances, myofunctional therapy, or other treatments, we'll ensure your comfort and understanding.

Our commitment to a thorough assessment allows us to uncover underlying issues, leading to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. At San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, your well-being is our top priority, and we're dedicated to helping you achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.

What is the treatment process?

During myofunctional therapy sessions, you will work with a therapist who guides you through various exercises and activities. These exercises may include tongue exercises, lip exercises, breathing exercises, and swallowing techniques. The therapist will provide clear instructions and monitor your progress throughout the treatment process. The exercises are typically performed regularly, and your therapist will adjust the plan as needed to achieve optimal results.

What is the recovery time?

Myofunctional therapy is a non-invasive treatment that does not require any downtime. You can continue with your daily activities immediately after each session. The duration of the therapy may vary based on your individual needs and goals. Your therapist will provide you with a recommended treatment plan and timeline during your initial consultation.

What should I expect in the results?

As you progress through myofunctional therapy, you may notice improvements in various areas, including better tongue posture, improved swallowing patterns, and enhanced breathing techniques. Over time, these improvements can lead to better oral health, reduced TMJ symptoms, and improved sleep quality over time.

Why choose us for myofunctional therapy?

At San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. Led by Dr. Amin Samadian, a Diplomate of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and visionary in the field of TMJ and sleep apnea treatments, our practice combines expertise with a holistic approach to orofacial and airway care. With a focus on personalized treatment plans and a commitment to improving the quality of life for our patients, we stand out as a trusted destination for myofunctional therapy.

We take a unique, collaborative approach to healthcare. Our multidisciplinary team of experts, led by Dr. Amin Samadian, brings together diverse perspectives from various medical fields to provide comprehensive and well-rounded care. This approach ensures that all aspects of your health are addressed, leading to more effective treatments and better outcomes. Our team of skilled professionals is here to guide you through the therapy process.