Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders 

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) refer to dysfunctions in the muscles and functions associated with the face and mouth. These disorders can have a direct or indirect impact on various aspects such as breastfeeding, the growth and development of facial structures, chewing, swallowing, speech, occlusion, temporomandibular joint movement, oral hygiene, the effectiveness of orthodontic treatments, facial aesthetics, and more.

The majority of OMDs stem from inadequate habitual nasal breathing or the presence of oral breathing. This leads to an adaptation of the muscles and orofacial functions to an abnormal breathing pattern, resulting in the development of numerous OMDs. These disorders can significantly influence the work of orthodontists, dentists, dental hygienists, speech-language pathologists, and other professionals involved in orofacial care.

Effective swallowing relies on the proper coordination of the muscles in the face, mouth, and throat. This essential function is dependent on the body's overall balance. For successful swallowing, the muscles and nerves of the tongue, cheeks, and throat must operate in unison. During normal swallowing, the tongue's tip presses firmly against the hard palate, which is situated just behind the front teeth. The tongue collaborates with other muscles involved in the swallowing process, while the hard palate absorbs the pressure exerted by the tongue.

Given that an individual swallows between 500 to 1,000 times daily, improper swallowing can lead to a range of complications. However, it is the resting position of the tongue that tends to cause the most significant issues due to its constant nature.