Dr. Ben, HELLO!
My 5-year-old has started snoring loudly at night and grinds his teeth while he sleeps. During the day he often breathes with his mouth open and mealtimes can be a struggle with certain foods. Should I be worried? Could something bigger be going on?
Sincerely,
Mom in Lee’s Summit of a soon-to-be kindergartner
Dr. Ben (and Summer’s) Response…
HELLO! Mom in Lee’s Summit of a soon-to-be kindergartner,
Thank you for asking. These are exactly the types of questions we hear every week from eagle-eyed parents like you. It can be alarming to see your son snoring or grinding their teeth and you’re being proactive by asking whether these patterns might be more than just a phase.
From what you’ve described, it’s possible your child has oral muscle patterns that aren’t working as smoothly as they could and should. When the muscles of the face, tongue and jaws don’t coordinate properly, it can affect breathing, sleep and eating. That’s where myofunctional therapy comes in.
Fortunately, HELLO! Pediatric Dentistry has a myofunctional therapist on staff since this is common enough among children. Meet Summer. She’s going to answer your question about your son and explain what myofunctional therapy is and how it can help him.
What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Explained simply, myofunctional therapy teaches the muscles of the mouth and face to work in healthier ways.
Through a series of guided exercises, children learn how to:
- Rest their tongue and lips in the right position
- Breathe comfortably through their nose
- Chew and swallow more effectively
- Reduce strain on their teeth and jaws
This therapy can be recommended on its own or as follow-up care after procedures like tongue tie treatment. But many kids benefit without ever having had a tongue tie release.
You’ve already noticed some important signs, such as the snoring and teeth grinding. Other things families often report include:
- Mouth stays open even when relaxed
- Frequent dry lips or mouth breathing
- Noisy breathing or restless sleep
- Chewing fatigue or avoidance of certain foods
Sometimes these habits are so subtle that they’re hard to notice, but over time they can lead to bigger concerns from orthodontic issues to disrupted sleep.
Do These Signs Really Need Myo Therapy?
Why take chances? Even though some children do improve naturally, it’s common for these patterns to persist and even worsen if they’re left unaddressed.
Potential effects of untreated muscle dysfunction can include:
- Continued grinding which wears down enamel
- Increased risk for crowded teeth and bite issues
- Ongoing mouth breathing which can affect growth and facial development
- Interrupted sleep that leaves kids overtired and irritable
The goal of myofunctional therapy is to step in early so kids can breathe, eat and rest more comfortably, which are incredibly important at any age, but especially for your son who’ll start school soon.
How Myo Therapy Works at HELLO!
Every child starts with an evaluation where we take time to observe how their muscles are working and talk with you about your concerns. Sometimes parents or guardians schedule a consult. Other times we note conditions during routine dental appointments.
If therapy is recommended, we’ll design a custom plan that fits your child’s age and needs. Most children visit weekly in the beginning then less often as progress is shown.
Sessions are designed to feel approachable. Think simple exercises, fun challenges and lots of encouragement. Many kids even look forward to their appointments.
How Can I Tell if It’s the Right Time?
If your gut is telling you something feels off, trust your parental instinct. You don’t have to be sure it’s a problem to get help.
A consultation is a gentle, no-pressure way to understand what’s going on and learn what options exist. Whether you choose to start therapy right away or wait and watch, you’ll leave with more clarity and confidence.
We’d be happy to meet you and your child to answer any other questions. You’re already taking an important first step by paying attention and speaking up.
Hope to see you soon,
Summer
HELLO! Pediatric Dentistry
Wondering if myofunctional therapy could help your child?
https://hellopediatricdentistry.com/contact/