As an integrative and biological dental practice, we often see patients who are surprised to learn how deeply the alignment of their teeth affects their entire body. One of the most common — and most overlooked — connections is between crossbite, misaligned teeth, and chronic neck tension. Fortunately, there is a powerful, non-invasive therapy that can help: myofunctional therapy. We’re proud to have a certified myofunctional therapist right here in our office!
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a form of physical therapy for the muscles of the face, tongue, and mouth. It retrains the orofacial muscles to function properly — encouraging nasal breathing, proper tongue posture, and optimal swallowing patterns.
While that may sound simple, these fundamental muscle habits directly impact jaw development, bite alignment, posture, and even breathing — all of which play a role in how the rest of the body feels and functions.
The Link Between Crossbite, Neck Tension, and Facial Muscle Dysfunction
A crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t align properly when the mouth is closed. This misalignment can be the result of underdeveloped jaws, incorrect tongue posture, or poor oral habits during childhood. Over time, a crossbite can lead to:
- Chronic jaw tension and TMJ dysfunction
- Headaches and facial pain
- Improper posture as the body compensates
- Neck and shoulder tension caused by muscular imbalances
The root of this chain reaction? Often, it’s a dysfunctional oral resting posture and inefficient muscle use — exactly what myofunctional therapy is designed to address.
Why We Recommend Myofunctional Therapy
Santa Teresa Smiles and Dr. Noha Oushy believe in addressing the root cause of oral health issues — not just treating the symptoms. This approach aligns perfectly with the goals of myofunctional therapy.
Here’s how it works:
- Improved Bite Alignment By retraining the tongue to rest on the roof of the mouth, we support natural jaw development and proper occlusion (bite).
- Reduced Neck and Jaw Tension Releasing overworked facial and neck muscles helps ease chronic tension and pain.
- Better Breathing and Posture Nasal breathing and correct tongue posture can improve oxygen intake and support full-body alignment.
- Support for Orthodontic and Airway Treatments Myofunctional therapy enhances the results of braces, expanders, and airway appliances — especially in children.
Comprehensive Care, All Under One Roof
Unlike many practices, we’re proud to have a certified myofunctional therapist on staff who works closely with our dental team to create fully personalized treatment plans. This collaborative approach allows us to:
- Identify and address the root causes of your crossbite or neck pain
- Combine therapy with other biological treatments for long-term results
- Monitor progress and adjust your care in real time
Whether you’re dealing with persistent neck and jaw discomfort, sleep-disordered breathing, or a misaligned bite, our team is here to guide you toward full-body wellness — starting with your mouth.
If you’re struggling with crossbite, chronic neck tension, or simply want to explore how your oral health could be impacting your overall wellness, we invite you to schedule a consultation. Our integrative approach, combined with in-house myofunctional therapy, offers a unique path to relief and long-term health.
Contact us today to book your consultation or to learn more about how our myofunctional therapy program can support your journey to whole-body wellness.
CONTACT US