There are a number of Certified Orofacial Myologists™ out there.
Why choose me?
I understand what you’re dealing with.
I understand that it’s difficult to give up bad habits. I used a pacifier myself when I was younger.
I understand what it’s like to be unable to breathe through the nose. I suffered from a nasal airway obstruction (deviated septum) for years, and I underwent a septoplasty procedure to correct it. I now know that nasal airway obstructions can cause orofacial myofunctional disorders. That’s why I refer all of my patients to an Ear Nose & Throat doctor for screening prior to therapy.
I understand that allergies are a chronic condition. I receive allergy shots, regularly clean my nose, and take allergy medicine as directed by my allergist. Allergies can cause orofacial myofunctional disorders. That’s why I recommend that all of my patients also be screened for allergies.
I understand that sleep apnea can be a multifactorial problem. I have mild obstructive sleep apnea myself and have tried CPAP, BiPAP, and oral appliance therapy. All of those therapies are miserable, in my experience. Sleep apnea and orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) can be comorbid conditions, and research has shown that orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) could be an adjunctive treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). I hypothesize that it’s because we’re clearing airway issues (by referring to ENTs, allergists, and airway-centric orthodontists), identifying tongue ties, correcting oral rest posture, and strengthening the back of the tongue and soft palate. Although I cannot definitively diagnose or treat sleep apnea (see my most recent blog post on OSA), I can screen for OSA and make appropriate referrals as needed.
I understand that without getting to the root of the problem, we won’t see long-term improvement. That’s why I always focus on cause of the problem before I treat the symptoms.
That’s why I think I make a great therapist.