Avoid Expensive Dental Work Later, Eliminate Habits Now
Thumb sucking may look cute, but it is a habit that should be eliminated in young children. Oral fixations such as thumb sucking lead to dental problems later in childhood that can be very costly. But how do you break your child of a habit? This can be extremely hard to do, especially at a young age where they may not understand that what they are doing is wrong. We can help. We have helped hundreds of children over the last 30 years elminate sucking habits. As a parent, you will be thrilled with the results we can achieve...and even more happy at the dental/orthodontic bills you do not have to pay!
What Does an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist Do for Habit Elimination?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapists (OMTs) help children and adults eliminate oral habits such as thumb sucking, pacifier use, finger sucking, nail biting, tongue sucking, or prolonged bottle use. These habits can influence dental alignment, facial development, breathing patterns, tongue posture, and speech. OMTs use positive, supportive, and age-appropriate strategies to help individuals replace these habits with healthier oral patterns — without shaming or forcing change. Therapy focuses on building awareness, motivation, and the muscle coordination needed for correct tongue resting posture, nasal breathing, and lip seal. OMTs often collaborate with families, orthodontists, and dentists to create plans that lead to long-term success and prevent orthodontic relapse.
Responsibilities of an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist Supporting Habit Elimination:
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Assess oral posture, breathing patterns, dental development, and habit history
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Teach correct resting posture of the tongue, lips, and jaw
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Support nasal breathing and lip seal as foundational skills
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Use motivational, reward-based systems to encourage voluntary habit replacement
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Provide exercises that improve oral muscle awareness and coordination
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Educate families on how habits form and how to support change at home in a positive way
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Collaborate with dentists, orthodontists, pediatricians, and caregivers when needed
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Create individualized treatment plans that promote lasting habit elimination and healthier oral development
