Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a rapidly growing field that focuses on correcting dysfunctions in the muscles of the face, tongue, and throat to improve breathing, swallowing, posture, and overall oral health. While it has long been overlooked in mainstream healthcare, growing research highlights its profound impact on jaw function, airway health, and neuromuscular balance.
Whether you’re dealing with jaw pain, breathing difficulties, temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), or chronic headaches, understanding OMT could be the key to long-term relief.
Understanding Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT)
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a non-invasive, exercise-based therapy that targets dysfunctional muscle patterns in the face, mouth, and throat. By retraining these muscles, OMT helps to correct issues related to:
- Jaw function and temporomandibular disorders (TMD)
- Nasal breathing and airway health
- Tongue posture and swallowing mechanics
- Headaches, neck pain, and orofacial tension
OMT is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), sleep apnoea, chronic mouth breathing, and speech disorders. It is also gaining traction in orthodontics, osteopathy, and dentistry due to its ability to improve oral posture and prevent relapse after treatment.
What Is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a structured treatment approach that retrains the muscles of the tongue, lips, cheeks, and throat to function optimally. It focuses on correcting dysfunctions that affect breathing, swallowing, speech, and jaw stability. By restoring natural muscle coordination, OMT helps alleviate strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), improve airway function, and support overall musculoskeletal balance.
Many individuals develop poor oral muscle habits that contribute to chronic issues such as jaw pain, headaches, disrupted sleep, and inefficient breathing. Dysfunctional swallowing, low tongue posture, and habitual mouth breathing are common patterns that OMT aims to correct through targeted exercises and postural adjustments.
The primary objectives of OMT include training the tongue to rest naturally against the roof of the mouth, strengthening the lips to support nasal breathing, and optimising the swallowing mechanism to reduce unnecessary strain on the facial and jaw muscles. These improvements contribute to better jaw alignment, reduced muscle fatigue, and enhanced overall function.
OMT is frequently used in conjunction with osteopathy, orthodontics, speech therapy, and sleep medicine to enhance treatment outcomes. It is particularly effective for individuals dealing with TMJ dysfunction, airway obstruction, and postural imbalances affecting the head and neck.
The History and Evolution of Myofunctional Therapy
Although OMT has gained recognition in recent years, its principles date back centuries. Early medical observations suggested a strong connection between tongue posture, jaw development, and airway health. However, it was not until the early 20th century that OMT became a recognised discipline within orthodontics and speech therapy.
In the early 1900s, orthodontists began studying how tongue and lip function influenced dental arch formation and facial development. Research expanded in the mid-20th century, with a growing focus on nasal breathing, swallowing mechanics, and orofacial muscle coordination. Brazil emerged as a leader in OMT research, where speech pathologists played a significant role in advancing the field.
Despite its benefits, OMT declined in popularity with the widespread use of fixed orthodontic appliances, which addressed dental alignment but did not correct underlying muscle dysfunctions. As a result, many patients experienced relapse after orthodontic treatment due to unresolved myofunctional issues.
The past two decades have seen a renewed interest in OMT, driven by increasing awareness of the role of oral function in sleep disorders, TMJ dysfunction, and airway health. Today, countries such as Brazil and the United States are leading efforts to integrate OMT into dental, osteopathic, and multidisciplinary healthcare settings.
The Science Behind Myofunctional Therapy and Orofacial Muscles
OMT is supported by research in biomechanics, respiratory physiology, and neuromuscular science, highlighting the critical role of orofacial muscles in overall health. The function of these muscles directly influences breathing efficiency, jaw alignment, nervous system regulation, and postural stability.
Breathing and airway function are closely tied to tongue posture. When the tongue rests against the palate, it supports nasal breathing, reduces airway collapse, and promotes proper craniofacial development. Conversely, a low tongue posture can lead to mouth breathing, which may contribute to reduced oxygen intake, dry mouth, and increased risk of airway obstruction.
Jaw stability and TMJ health depend on balanced muscle function. The tongue, lips, and facial muscles must work in harmony to prevent excessive strain on the temporomandibular joint. Dysfunctional swallowing patterns and compensatory muscle use can contribute to jaw misalignment, clenching, grinding, and chronic pain.
Neuromuscular regulation plays a key role in managing headaches, migraines, and facial pain. Proper orofacial muscle coordination helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, reducing tension and improving overall nervous system function. Many individuals with orofacial dysfunctions experience relief from chronic pain symptoms once muscle imbalances are corrected.
Swallowing mechanics also impact ear and sinus health. The act of swallowing naturally opens the eustachian tubes, helping to regulate pressure in the middle ear. Dysfunctional swallowing patterns may contribute to ear fullness, tinnitus, and an increased risk of conditions such as otitis media (glue ear).
OMT is increasingly recognised as an effective intervention for improving jaw stability, airway function, and postural alignment. It is recommended by osteopaths, dentists, and sleep specialists as part of a comprehensive approach to treating temporomandibular disorders, breathing dysfunctions, and chronic orofacial pain.
In individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), weakened connective tissues can contribute to jaw instability, discomfort, and dysfunction. Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) offers a structured approach to improving muscle coordination, reducing strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and promoting long-term stability. By incorporating targeted exercises and pacing techniques, OMT helps balance muscle function, prevent flare-ups, and support overall jaw health.Anna, Principal Osteopath at Key Osteopaths
How OMT Supports Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) refer to dysfunctional patterns in the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat that can impact breathing, swallowing, speech, and jaw function. These dysfunctions are often overlooked, but they can contribute to chronic pain, airway obstruction, and long-term structural changes in the jaw and facial bones.
OMT directly addresses these dysfunctions by retraining the orofacial muscles to function correctly. Through targeted exercises, OMT helps restore natural muscle coordination, supports proper tongue posture, and reduces the strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This approach is particularly effective for individuals experiencing jaw instability, mouth breathing, swallowing difficulties, and airway-related conditions such as snoring and sleep apnoea.
Identifying Common Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders
OMDs can manifest in various ways, often presenting with symptoms that are mistakenly attributed to unrelated conditions. Patients with OMDs may experience issues such as chronic jaw pain, frequent headaches, ear problems, speech difficulties, and persistent mouth breathing.
Common OMDs include:
- Low tongue posture, where the tongue rests at the bottom of the mouth instead of against the palate
- Tongue thrusting, an improper swallowing pattern where the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth
- Chronic open-mouth posture, leading to weak lip and cheek muscles and poor nasal breathing
- Incorrect swallowing mechanics, causing strain on facial muscles and inefficient eustachian tube function
- Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), often resulting from imbalanced muscle activity and poor jaw alignment
OMT targets these dysfunctions by strengthening weak muscles, retraining habitual postures, and promoting efficient swallowing and breathing patterns. This reduces muscle fatigue and strain, preventing further complications in the jaw and airway.
The Connection Between OMT and Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD)
Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is a common issue affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Many cases of TMD are linked to orofacial muscle imbalances, which lead to jaw instability, pain, and restricted movement. Dysfunctional swallowing, poor tongue posture, and habitual clenching or grinding place excessive strain on the temporomandibular joint.
OMT plays a key role in TMD management by addressing the underlying muscle dysfunctions contributing to joint stress. By optimising tongue and jaw muscle activity, OMT reduces compensatory behaviours such as excessive clenching and overuse of the facial muscles. This leads to better jaw alignment, reduced inflammation, and improved mobility of the TMJ.
For individuals with hypermobility-related TMD, such as those with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), OMT provides additional support by reinforcing muscle control around the jaw. This helps stabilise the joint and reduces the likelihood of painful dislocations or subluxations.
How Poor Orofacial Function Contributes to Breathing Issues and Sleep Disorders
Orofacial muscle dysfunction has a direct impact on breathing efficiency and sleep quality. The tongue, lips, and soft tissues of the throat play a crucial role in maintaining an open airway. When these muscles are weak or improperly positioned, the airway can become restricted, leading to conditions such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea.
Mouth breathing is a common consequence of poor orofacial function. When the lips fail to seal properly, nasal breathing is compromised, forcing the individual to breathe through their mouth. This can lead to poor oxygen exchange, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, and reduced activation of the diaphragm. Mouth breathing also alters craniofacial development in children, contributing to narrow dental arches, misaligned teeth, and underdeveloped airways.
OMT helps restore nasal breathing by strengthening the lip muscles, training the tongue to rest against the roof of the mouth, and improving soft tissue tone in the throat. This not only enhances oxygen intake but also supports the autonomic nervous system, which plays a role in regulating sleep cycles and overall relaxation.
For patients with sleep-disordered breathing, including sleep apnoea, OMT has been shown to improve airway stability by reducing tongue collapse during sleep. This leads to fewer apnoeic events, better sleep quality, and improved daytime energy levels. The therapy is often recommended as an adjunct to other treatments such as mandibular advancement devices or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.
Anna is a delightful and competent professional who gives first rate, comprehensive treatment at every visit. I went in as a “wonky donkey” and walked out feeling six foot… read more
Julia WishartAnna is brilliant – she really listens and then treats any issue so well I walk out feeling completely different. She thinks about things between visits so always moves things… read more
pippa moodySuper helpfull, friendly and informative. Cant recommend highly enough.
Ashley HollomanThe Key Components of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is based on training and strengthening the muscles responsible for proper breathing, swallowing, and jaw function. The primary focus is on tongue posture, lip seal, and the mechanics of swallowing, as these functions directly impact airway stability, jaw health, and overall musculoskeletal balance. By addressing dysfunctions in these areas, OMT helps improve breathing efficiency, prevent jaw tension, and support long-term oral health.
Tongue Positioning and the Importance of Proper Resting Posture
The natural resting position of the tongue plays a significant role in jaw stability, airway function, and facial development. Ideally, the tongue should rest fully against the roof of the mouth, with the tip slightly behind the upper front teeth and the midsection applying gentle pressure to the palate.
A low tongue posture, where the tongue rests on the floor of the mouth, can contribute to mouth breathing, underdeveloped dental arches, and a narrower airway. This posture may also lead to increased strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), resulting in jaw pain, clicking, and muscle fatigue.
Training the tongue to maintain proper posture is a fundamental aspect of OMT. Exercises focus on strengthening the tongue muscles, improving proprioception, and reinforcing the habit of resting the tongue against the palate. Over time, this encourages better nasal breathing, improved jaw alignment, and reduced strain on surrounding muscles.
The Role of Lip Strength and Nasal Breathing in Oral Function
A strong lip seal is essential for maintaining nasal breathing, as weak orofacial muscles can make it difficult to keep the lips together naturally. When the lips remain open at rest, mouth breathing becomes the default pattern, leading to reduced oxygen efficiency, increased oral dryness, and changes in facial development.
The orbicularis oris, the circular muscle surrounding the lips, plays a key role in maintaining proper lip seal. Weakness in this muscle can lead to habitual open-mouth posture, poor swallowing mechanics, and increased tension in the jaw and neck. Strengthening the lips through OMT helps support nasal breathing, reduces reliance on compensatory facial muscles, and improves overall oral function.
Nasal breathing is more efficient than mouth breathing, as it filters, warms, and humidifies the air before it reaches the lungs. It also supports better oxygen exchange, improved sleep quality, and reduced risk of airway obstruction. OMT focuses on retraining lip strength to encourage consistent nasal breathing, reducing strain on the oral and facial muscles.
MEET THE
team
Understanding the Correct Swallowing Mechanism
Swallowing is a complex process involving precise coordination between the tongue, lips, cheeks, and throat muscles. A correct swallow involves the tongue pressing firmly against the roof of the mouth in a wave-like motion, with minimal involvement of the facial muscles.
Dysfunctional swallowing patterns, such as tongue thrusting or excessive lip movement, can place unnecessary strain on the jaw and contribute to misalignment of the teeth and bite. These issues are commonly observed in individuals with temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) and those experiencing chronic jaw pain, ear fullness, or speech difficulties.
OMT helps correct improper swallowing patterns by reinforcing proper tongue placement and reducing compensatory facial muscle use. Exercises focus on developing stronger tongue control, better muscle coordination, and improved swallowing efficiency to prevent excessive strain on the TMJ and surrounding structures.
Exercises Used in OMT to Enhance Functionality
OMT includes a structured set of exercises designed to strengthen orofacial muscles, improve neuromuscular coordination, and reinforce correct functional patterns. These exercises are tailored to the individual’s needs and gradually progress as muscle function improves.
Common OMT exercises include:
- Tongue suction holds – Training the tongue to maintain proper resting posture by suctioning it against the palate without engaging the jaw or lips.
- Button pulls – Strengthening lip muscles by holding a button between the lips and resisting a gentle pull to improve lip seal and support nasal breathing.
- Balloon holds – Enhancing cheek and throat muscle function by holding air in a balloon while breathing through the nose to develop better swallowing coordination.
- Mewing techniques – Encouraging proper tongue posture and jaw positioning to improve airway stability and support overall craniofacial health.
- Resistance swallowing – Strengthening the tongue and throat muscles by performing exaggerated swallowing motions to build endurance and function.
By consistently practicing these exercises, patients develop stronger, more coordinated muscle function, leading to improved breathing, swallowing, and jaw stability. OMT is often integrated with osteopathy, orthodontics, and speech therapy to maximise its effectiveness in treating orofacial dysfunctions.
Having suffered a neck injury during my rugby career I did the rounds with various recommended osteopaths with limited success. Then by chance I visited Anna in West Byfleet and… read more
Tom ClaryAnna is a brilliant osteopath she has helped me with varioys limitations and helped improve my quality of life
Gabriel CiriloLove Anna, she is really good. Helped me out with mobility issues, muscle and tension release post training. Also now that I’m expecting my baby she’s been fantastic, helping with… read more
Maria Alejandra ReisThe Link Between Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders that affects collagen production, leading to joint hypermobility, tissue fragility, and musculoskeletal instability. Among the many challenges associated with EDS, temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), chronic jaw pain, and orofacial instability are common. These issues often go unaddressed, as conventional dental and medical treatments focus on managing symptoms rather than correcting underlying muscle dysfunction.
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) provides a structured approach to improving jaw stability, muscle coordination, and airway function in individuals with EDS. By targeting the orofacial muscles, tongue posture, and swallowing mechanics, OMT helps reduce strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and supports overall musculoskeletal balance.
Why EDS and hEDS Patients Experience TMJ Dysfunction
Individuals with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) are particularly susceptible to temporomandibular dysfunction due to weakened connective tissues and ligament laxity. The TMJ relies on strong ligament support to maintain proper alignment and function. In individuals with EDS, these ligaments are often too lax, leading to jaw instability, recurrent dislocations, and increased muscle strain.
TMJ dysfunction in EDS patients often presents as:
- Chronic jaw pain and facial tension
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw joint
- Frequent headaches and migraines due to muscle overuse
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or maintaining proper tongue posture
- Ear fullness, tinnitus, and Eustachian tube dysfunction due to muscular imbalances
Due to the hypermobility of the TMJ, EDS patients tend to compensate by overusing their orofacial muscles, which can lead to chronic muscle fatigue and dysfunction. Instead of relying on stable joint structures, they depend on excessive muscle engagement to support the jaw, increasing the risk of pain and tension-related symptoms.
How OMT Supports EDS-Related Orofacial Challenges
OMT helps address the muscle imbalances and compensatory patterns commonly seen in EDS patients by retraining the muscles to function more efficiently. Since ligament support is compromised in hypermobile individuals, strengthening the surrounding muscles plays a crucial role in improving jaw stability and reducing excessive muscle strain.
Key benefits of OMT for EDS patients include:
- Enhancing tongue posture to support jaw alignment and airway function
- Strengthening lip and cheek muscles to reduce compensatory muscle overuse
- Correcting swallowing mechanics to prevent additional stress on the TMJ
- Training proper nasal breathing to minimise mouth breathing and associated muscle fatigue
Many EDS patients also struggle with chronic fatigue and exercise intolerance, making it important to approach OMT in a way that respects their physical limitations. Exercises are often adapted to avoid overexertion, focusing on gradual muscle activation and controlled movement patterns.
The Role of Myofunctional Therapy in Reducing Chronic Pain and Jaw Instability
One of the key challenges for individuals with EDS is chronic pain resulting from muscle overuse and joint instability. The jaw, being one of the most frequently used joints in the body, is particularly vulnerable to dysfunction when the surrounding muscles are not working optimally.
OMT helps alleviate pain and instability by retraining the neuromuscular system to distribute workload more evenly across the orofacial muscles. Instead of relying on compensatory movements, patients learn how to engage the correct muscles for essential functions such as breathing, swallowing, and speaking.
OMT helps alleviate pain and instability by retraining the neuromuscular system to distribute workload more evenly across the orofacial muscles. Instead of relying on compensatory movements, patients learn how to engage the correct muscles for essential functions such as breathing, swallowing, and speaking.
For individuals with EDS, relaxation techniques, gentle strengthening exercises, and postural corrections are particularly beneficial. When applied consistently, OMT can help:
- Reduce chronic jaw pain and facial tension
- Improve bite function and chewing efficiency
- Decrease the frequency of TMJ subluxations and dislocations
- Support better head and neck posture, reducing strain on the cervical spine
By integrating OMT into a broader treatment plan that may include osteopathy, physiotherapy, and dental support, EDS patients can achieve greater jaw stability, reduced pain, and improved quality of life.
The Benefits of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy for Overall Health
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) extends beyond jaw function and swallowing mechanics. Its impact on breathing, nervous system regulation, and digestion makes it an essential tool for improving overall health. Many chronic conditions, including sleep-disordered breathing, tinnitus, and acid reflux, are linked to dysfunctional orofacial muscle patterns. By retraining the tongue, lips, and throat to work optimally, OMT helps support key physiological processes, leading to long-term health improvements.
How OMT Supports Better Breathing and Oxygen Intake
Breathing efficiency depends on proper tongue posture, lip seal, and nasal airway function. When these elements are compromised, individuals often resort to mouth breathing, which can lead to lower oxygen uptake, poor sleep quality, and increased respiratory strain.
Mouth breathing is associated with a range of health issues, including snoring, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), and daytime fatigue. It can also contribute to chronic inflammation in the airway, making individuals more susceptible to allergies, sinus infections, and respiratory illnesses.
OMT helps optimise breathing by:
- Encouraging tongue elevation to support a naturally open airway
- Strengthening the orbicularis oris muscle to maintain lip seal and prevent mouth breathing
- Training diaphragmatic breathing to improve oxygen efficiency and reduce upper airway resistance
For individuals with sleep-disordered breathing, OMT has been shown to reduce airway collapse, leading to fewer apnoeic events, improved sleep quality, and better daytime concentration. Patients undergoing treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea often find that incorporating OMT enhances the effectiveness of CPAP therapy and oral appliance use.
Reducing Ear Fullness, Tinnitus, and Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Ear problems such as tinnitus, ear fullness, and middle ear congestion are often linked to dysfunctional swallowing patterns and poor tongue posture. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, relies on proper swallowing action to regulate pressure and drain excess fluid. If swallowing mechanics are compromised, the tube may not open effectively, leading to sensations of fullness, blocked ears, and increased susceptibility to otitis media (glue ear).
OMT helps regulate Eustachian tube function by:
- Strengthening swallowing muscles to improve tube opening and drainage
- Encouraging correct tongue posture to reduce throat tension and improve neuromuscular control
- Enhancing soft palate mobility, which plays a role in middle ear pressure regulation
Many individuals with chronic ear issues find relief through OMT, particularly when symptoms are linked to muscle imbalances or temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). Addressing these underlying factors can lead to significant improvements in ear pressure, sound sensitivity, and overall auditory function.
The Impact of OMT on Digestive Health and Acid Reflux
Swallowing function plays a key role in digestive health and oesophageal function. Improper swallowing mechanics can contribute to aerophagia (excessive air swallowing), acid reflux, and difficulty clearing the oesophagus. Many individuals with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) unknowingly use incorrect swallowing patterns, which may increase intra-abdominal pressure and worsen reflux symptoms.
The connection between OMT and digestive function is particularly relevant for individuals experiencing:
- Chronic acid reflux (GERD) or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
- Frequent throat clearing or sensation of a lump in the throat
- Swallowing difficulties due to muscle weakness or discoordination
OMT helps improve digestive function by:
- Optimising tongue movement to facilitate a smoother swallowing process
- Reducing oral and pharyngeal tension that may contribute to reflux-related throat discomfort
- Training proper breath control to prevent excess air intake during swallowing
By improving neuromuscular control of swallowing and reducing airway resistance, OMT can contribute to better oesophageal clearance, reduced reflux symptoms, and overall digestive comfort. Many patients report improvements in post-meal discomfort, throat irritation, and swallowing efficiency after incorporating OMT into their treatment plan.
Essential Myofunctional Therapy Exercises for Jaw, Tongue, and Breathing
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) uses targeted exercises to strengthen the tongue, lips, cheeks, and throat muscles while correcting dysfunctional patterns that affect breathing, swallowing, and jaw stability. By consistently performing these exercises, patients can improve tongue posture, develop stronger orofacial muscles, and enhance overall neuromuscular coordination.
For individuals with temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), airway issues, or chronic pain, these exercises help reduce muscle fatigue, promote nasal breathing, and stabilise the jaw. They also play a key role in treating snoring, sleep apnoea, and postural imbalances affecting the head and neck.
Tongue Suction Holds for Strength and Posture
The tongue plays a vital role in jaw stability, airway function, and swallowing mechanics. Many individuals have weak or improperly positioned tongues, which can contribute to mouth breathing, incorrect swallowing patterns, and airway obstruction.
Tongue suction holds train the tongue to rest against the roof of the mouth while engaging the correct muscles for stability. This exercise helps develop better tongue strength, improve swallowing coordination, and encourage a natural closed-mouth posture.
How to Perform Tongue Suction Holds:
- Place the entire tongue against the roof of the mouth, making full contact from front to back.
- Apply gentle suction to create a light vacuum effect, keeping the tongue in place without straining the jaw.
- Hold for 10–20 seconds while keeping the lips relaxed and breathing through the nose.
- Repeat the exercise 5–10 times, gradually increasing the duration as strength improves.
For individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) or muscle fatigue, it is important to reduce intensity and duration to prevent overexertion. Consistently practicing this exercise helps develop a stronger, more stable tongue posture, leading to better jaw alignment and improved airway function.
Button Pulls to Enhance Lip Seal and Prevent Mouth Breathing
A strong lip seal is essential for maintaining nasal breathing, reducing strain on the jaw, and preventing mouth breathing. The orbicularis oris muscle, which surrounds the lips, can often be weak, making it difficult to keep the lips together at rest. Weakness in this muscle contributes to mouth breathing, open-mouth posture, and increased strain on the facial and jaw muscles.
Button pulls target lip strength, facial muscle control, and neuromuscular endurance. This exercise encourages better lip seal, reducing the likelihood of chronic mouth breathing and its associated health issues.
How to Perform Button Pulls:
- Thread a small button onto a piece of dental floss and place it between the lips (not the teeth).
- Gently press the lips together, holding the button in place with lip strength alone.
- While keeping the lips sealed, gently pull the floss outward to create slight resistance.
- Hold for 5–10 seconds, then relax.
- Repeat 10 times, gradually increasing resistance as lip strength improves.
Button pulls are particularly useful for individuals experiencing habitual mouth breathing, speech difficulties, or orofacial muscle weakness. By strengthening the lips, patients can develop a more stable mouth posture, reducing strain on the jaw and improving overall oral function.
Balloon Holds for Cheek and Upper Oesophageal Strength
The cheeks, throat, and upper oesophageal muscles play a crucial role in swallowing, breathing, and maintaining airway stability. Weakness in these muscles can contribute to inefficient swallowing, airway collapse, and increased muscle strain in the jaw and neck.
Balloon holds focus on building intraoral pressure, improving soft tissue tone, and enhancing upper oesophageal strength. This exercise is particularly useful for individuals with sleep-disordered breathing, weak cheek muscles, or difficulties with swallowing coordination.
How to Perform Balloon Holds:
- Take a small balloon and partially inflate it with a single controlled breath.
- While holding the air inside the balloon, seal the lips tightly and breathe in and out through the nose.
- Maintain the seal for 10–15 seconds without releasing air from the balloon.
- Slowly exhale and repeat the exercise 5–8 times.
This exercise strengthens the cheeks, tongue, and upper throat, supporting better swallowing function, improved airway control, and enhanced facial muscle tone. It also reinforces nasal breathing and diaphragm engagement, which are key components of optimal respiratory and postural function.
I can not recommend Anna more…..she has totally helped me sort my lower back after a slipped disc. I now see her regularly just to prevent any further issues with… read more
Caroline CarrAnna came highly recommended to me by a friend so I decided to go and see her about a muscle issue in my left arm. Anna was fantastic, she asked… read more
philip selfI have been seeing Francesca for a few years now, initially for severe back pain which she was able to identify the source of and alleviate really quickly. Now… read more
Anne EastwoodTake the First Step Towards Better Jaw Function and Breathing
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is a highly effective, non-invasive approach to improving jaw stability, breathing efficiency, and overall orofacial function. Whether you’re struggling with jaw pain, sleep disturbances, chronic mouth breathing, or swallowing difficulties, targeted myofunctional exercises can help retrain the muscles needed for optimal function.
At Key Osteopaths, we specialise in a holistic approach to health, addressing the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction rather than just managing symptoms. If you’re experiencing discomfort related to temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), airway issues, or postural imbalances, our expert team can provide a tailored treatment plan to support long-term relief and better function.
Book a Consultation with Key Osteopaths Today
If you suspect that poor tongue posture, mouth breathing, or muscular imbalances are contributing to your discomfort, now is the time to take action. Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can be the missing link in achieving lasting improvements in breathing, swallowing, and jaw function.
At Key Osteopaths, our consultations begin with a comprehensive assessment to understand your symptoms and identify the root cause of your concerns. From there, we create a customised treatment plan designed to retrain muscle function, reduce strain, and support a healthier, more balanced oral posture.
Taking the first step towards better jaw function and breathing can have a significant impact on your overall health. Book your appointment today and start your journey to a more comfortable and pain-free life.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
During your first appointment at Key Osteopaths, we will conduct a detailed evaluation of your jaw, tongue posture, breathing patterns, and swallowing function. This includes assessing muscle strength, joint mobility, and any postural imbalances that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Our approach is gentle, patient-focused, and tailored to your specific needs. Based on our findings, we will develop a structured treatment plan, which may include:
- Targeted myofunctional exercises to strengthen the tongue, lips, and throat muscles
- Manual therapy to relieve tension in the jaw, neck, and facial muscles
- Breathing retraining techniques to support nasal breathing and airway stability
- Lifestyle and postural recommendations to help maintain progress between sessions
We work closely with patients to ensure they understand each step of the process and feel confident in their treatment plan. Our goal is to provide lasting relief and equip you with the tools needed to maintain better jaw function, improved breathing, and reduced discomfort for the long term.
If you’re ready to explore how Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can help you, contact our clinic or book your consultation online today.