On Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders refers to any functional disturbance that may cause issues with growth and function. Temporal Mandibular Joint pain, facial pain and head aches can often be linked with functional issues involving the muscles of mastication, face, head and neck; Such as, muscular imbalance, functional habits, improper tongue function, poor breathing habits, tie/lip ties, incorrect mastication; chewing/swallowing, incorrect posture of the head, neck, face and body. 

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Working with an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist can help identify these issues and work to restore function and balance and improve symptoms of TMD.  Treatment involves breathing awareness and retraining if necessary and the use of myofunctional exercisers to restore correct function.

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TMJ/TMD are often multifactorial, meaning they stem for multiple problems. As an OMT Katie works closely with other allied health professional to achieve optimal outcomes for her patients. 

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'I found a passion for Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy trying to find a resolution for my  own OMD issues. Ongoing head aches, TMJ tension, teeth clenching. I spent years trying to manage my symptoms and control ongoing head aches, jaw tightness and tension. As a Dental Hygienist with 20+ years of experience, I studied OMT with the Australian Association of Orofacial Myology to broaden my knowledge and understanding. This opened my eyes and ignited a passion for OMT. While there is no one easy answer, I have been able to find the ways to mange my OMD and have a great team  and referral base to help support the use of OMT for patient care. I love being able to help patients get the answers and help they need'.

Katie Harper

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