Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Barriers And Facilitators For Dental Practitioners In Implementing Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy: A Scoping Review Protocol, Heuiwon Han, Mina Jawadi

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) addresses various dental issues and has evolved significantly since its emergence in the early 20^th century. Despite its uses and effectiveness, the adoption of OMT among dental practitioners varies with a lack of comprehensive understanding in the field. This scoping review will aim to map the current evidence on OMT in dentistry, with a focus on the perspectives and attitudes of dental practitioners, as well as the barriers to and facilitators of its implementation in clinical practice.

Method: The planned scoping review adheres to the JBI methodology for scoping reviews guide, with data sourced …

How To Know If A Journal Is Legitimate, Nancy Pearl Solomon

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

In these times of quickly proliferating journals with potentially unscrupulous publishing practices, it is more important than ever to be confident that the journals you rely on for scholarly content and for your own publication needs are legitimate. We are proud to report that the IJOM was thoroughly reviewed by the Committee on Publication Ethics and has been accepted for membership, verifying that the journal maintains a commitment to research and a high level of publication integrity.

Proceedings Of The 2023 Iaom Convention, International Association Of Orofacial Myology

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM) held its 2023 Convention in Chandler, Arizona from October 13 - 15. The Proceedings of the Convention contain abstracts and summaries of podium and poster presentations.

The Use Of A Myofunctional Device In An Aged Care Population For Oral Care And Swallowing: A Feasibility Study, Hollie-Ann L. Shortland, Gwendalyn Webb, Anne E. Vertigan, Sally Hewat

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: Poor oral health is a known predictor of aspiration pneumonia in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and chronically ill. This study examined the feasibility of using myofunctional devices during a 5-week intervention for the management of oral care and dysphagia for residents in a residential aged-care facility.

Method: Feasibility was determined through evaluation of study recruitment and retention rates, adherence to intervention, and resident and staff acceptability of the intervention. Thirteen residents, ages 74–99, participated in the intervention and 10 care staff completed feedback on post-intervention questionnaires.

Results: Enrolment and retention rates were 61.9% and 92.3%, respectively. Adherence …

Muscle Tension Dysphonia In Singers And Professional Speakers With Ankyloglossia: Impact Of Treatment With Lingual Frenuloplasty And Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Isabella Summersgill, Gloria Nguyen, Cullen Grey, Leyli Norouz-Knutsen, Robyn Merkel-Walsh, Christine Katzenmeir, Benjamin Rafii, Soroush Zaghi

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Introduction: Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) describes a condition affecting the feeling or quality of the voice due to increased muscle tension in and/or around the neck and larynx. Ankyloglossia is a condition of restricted tongue mobility that has been shown to be associated with increased muscle tension. This case series explores outcomes for voice users with MTD who have been treated for ankyloglossia.

Methods: Twelve professional or recreational voice users diagnosed with ankyloglossia were surveyed on their symptoms of MTD before and after treatment with lingual frenuloplasty and pre- and post-operative orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), a multidisciplinary approach known as …

What Are We Missing In Adult Obstructive Sleep Apnea Clinical Evaluation? Review Of Official Guidelines, Eduardo J. Correa, Carlos O´Connor-Reina, Laura Rodriguez-Alcalá, Diego M. Conti, Alberto Rabino, Peter M. Baptista, Maria-Teresa Garcia-Iriarte, Guillermo Plaza

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: This article presents a narrative review of current recommendations for the clinical evaluation and management of adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to identify points missing from a myofunctional perspective.

Methods: The authors reviewed current official guidelines for adult patients with OSA, searching clinical evaluation and treatment recommendations for myofunctional therapy.

Results: None of the current guidelines for evaluation of adult OSA recommend performing a myofunctional evaluation. Only two guidelines consider myofunctional therapy (MFT) as a treatment modality for adult patients with OSA.

Conclusion: Despite the role of the pharyngeal dilator muscles as an …

Advances And Updates On Open-Access Publishing By The Ijom, Nancy Pearl Solomon

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

An online, open-access, no-fee model of the International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM) was established in December 2020 and includes all archived articles back to the journal’s origin in 1975. While aiming to increase content for the journal, the Editorial Review Board (ERB) has also been diligent about maintaining high standards for publication. This note From the Editor highlights recent publications, conference proceedings, and special issues. It also lists updates and challenges in terms of policies and practices. The IJOM remains both a traditional association-supported journal and is on the cutting edge of open-access publishing.

Proceedings Of The 2022 Iaom Convention, International Association Of Orofacial Myology

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM) held its 2022 Convention in Kansas City, Missouri from October 21 - 23. The Proceedings of the Convention contain abstracts and summaries of podium and poster presentations.

Proceedings Of The 2022 Icap Conference, International Association Of Orofacial Myology

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The International Consortium of Ankylofrenula Professional (ICAP) held its 2022 Conference in Vancouver, Canada from September 1 to 4, 2022, titled ‘Untangling Ankylofrenula: Collaborative Approaches to Best Practice Management’. The Conference Proceedings includes abstracts and summaries of plenary, concurrent, lightning and virtual presentations.

Virtual Baby: 3d Model Of The Anatomy And Physiology Of Sucking And Swallowing In Infants As An Educational Tool, Flávia Rebelo Puccini, Marina Gatti, Antônio De Castro Rodrigues, Silmara Rondon-Melo, Chao Lung Wen, Roberta Lopes De Castro Martinelli, Giédre Berretin-Felix

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Objective: This project aimed to develop and update a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) graphic video learning object demonstrating a current knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of sucking and swallowing in newborns during breastfeeding.

Method: To build and update the 3D computer graphics iconographies of the "Virtual Baby," we defined objectives for the learning object, created a literature review-based script, and organized a guide for structural (static) and functional (dynamic) graphical modeling for the designer.

Results: Using 3D computer graphics, we produced a video with static images (anatomical structural) and dynamic sequences (most significant physiological and functional aspects and application of …

Review Of A Trip To The Land Of Funny Animals: Oral Motor And Myofunctional Exercises For Toddlers By Hilit Brown, Robyn Merkel-Walsh

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The book A Trip to the Land of Funny Animals: Oral Motor and Myofunctional Exercises for Toddlers by Hilit Brown (illustrated by Karin Berenshtein) is reviewed by a Certified Orofacial Myologist^®. The review lists several strengths and weaknesses of the book and concludes that it may be a useful addition to a therapist's "toolbox." Parents are cautioned to work with a speech therapist before implementing the exercises for further instruction and guidance. In addition, the activities are more appropriate for children closer to the age of 4 years rather than toddlers (ages 1–3).

Functional Nasal Breathing Rehabilitation: Effectiveness And Feasibility Of An Online Integrative Breathing Therapy Protocol, Rosalba Courtney, Roger Engel, Sandra Grace, Anna Potts, Brooke Riordan, Kaitlyn Ireland, Courtney Osbourne, Avinash Sukhtankar

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: Nasal disuse and mouth breathing are associated with negative structural, functional, postural, occlusal, and behavioural changes. While there is some research to suggest that nasal breathing exercises can reduce mouth breathing, clinical protocols have not been extensively investigated. The purpose of this research was to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of a nasal breathing rehabilitation protocol based on Integrative Breathing Therapy principles called Functional Nasal Breathing Rehabilitation (FNBR).

Methods: Twenty-three participants with symptoms of nasal obstruction and self-reported mouth breathing completed the 4-week online FNBR training. Outcome measures included the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale, a numeric rating …

Mental Practice Of Lingual Resistance And Cortical Plasticity In Older Adults: An Exploratory Fnirs Study, Erin Kamarunas, Sarah Szynkiewicz, Lindsay Griffin, Teresa Drulia, Kelsey Murray

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: Mental practice using motor imagery (MP) improves motor strength and coordination in the upper and lower extremities in clinical patient populations. Its effectiveness as a rehabilitation tool for patients with lingual weakness is not yet well understood, nor are the underlying mechanisms within the context of swallow or lingual MP. Using previously published data on a lingual and MP exercise program, the objective of this study was to explore how MP of lingual exercise affects cortical activation in healthy older adults over time and how neural changes correlate with functional oral pressure outcomes.

Method: A prospective randomized controlled study …

Orofacial Myofunctional Assessments In Adults With Malocclusion: A Scoping Review, Samantha C. Washington, Jayanti Ray

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Background: Breathing, chewing, swallowing, sleep, and speech disorders are known to be associated with malocclusions. Assessment protocols using non-instrumental evaluation of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) in adults with malocclusions are almost nonexistent. Purpose: This scoping review aimed to determine the existence of scientific evidence demonstrating the areas of non-instrumental assessment of OMD in adults with malocclusion. Another purpose was to identify the protocols for assessing the nature of orofacial myofunctional assessments in adults with malocclusion. Methods: An electronic search was performed in the databases: MEDLINE, EBSCOhost, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Health & Medical Collection, Medline, Nursing and Allied Health Database, …

Review Of New Trends In Myofunctional Therapy: Occlusion, Muscles And Posture, By Saccomanno And Paskay (2020), Jayanti Ray

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The field of myofunctional therapy (MT) is complex, as it covers theoretical and practical information on many topics to effectively assess and treat orofacial myofunctional disorders, also known as myofunctional disorders, including tongue thrust, tongue posture, tongue-tie, orthodontic concepts, oral habits, and more. This review summarizes the strengths and usefulness of the book New Trends in Myofunctional Therapy: Occlusion, Muscles and Posture (Saccomanno & Paskay, 2020). The review informs the audience about various important features of the book, chapter materials, and the overall usefulness of the content for professionals working in MT. Providing cutting-edge information, the book draws substantive support …

Perceptions Of Tongue-Bulb Comfort And Stability With And Without Anti-Slip Patches During Assessments Of Tongue Strength And Endurance, Heidi A. Vanravenhorst-Bell, Lucy M. Cook

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: The Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) is commonly used to measure tongue strength and endurance. The tongue, however, is reported to periodically move from its intended placement on the IOPI bulb during measurement. This study sought to determine one’s perception of tongue-to-bulb slippage with and without two anti-slip patches (Patch1 – flexible fabric, Patch2 – hypoallergenic micropore fabric) and whether measures of tongue strength and endurance differed across the three IOPI bulb conditions.

Method: 40 healthy adults were randomly assigned to perform tongue strength and endurance procedures by elevating either the anterior (n = 22) or posterior ( …

Early Orthodontists, Their Challenges, And Their Significant Impact On Orofacial Myology, Charlotte A. Boshart

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

“Knowing your history can give you the tools to shape your future.” Gloria Feldt’s insightful quote inspires us to delve into the past and learn from those who came before us. This article chronicles the journey of several individuals who shaped the field of orthodontics and influenced the formation of the specialty of orofacial myology. The early years of orthodontics were challenging. In addition to the struggle to elevate the focus of orthodontics beyond mechanics, there was the challenge to convince academia to deem it worthy of post-graduate study. Dr. Edward H. Angle left his indelible mark on orthodontics and …

Meet The Journal’S Editorial Review Board Members, Nancy Pearl Solomon

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

I am honored to take on the role as Editor-in-Chief (EIC) of the International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM). To prepare for my role as EIC, I set two major goals to address today’s quickly evolving publication standards and the expansion and growth of the discipline of orofacial myofunctional disorders. The first was to establish an on-line submission and review process and an on-line archive for all past articles. The second critical goal was to recruit and enlist an international group of highly respected scientists and doctoral-level practitioners who represent diverse topics related to orofacial myofunctional disorders …

Development Of A Concept For A Mobile Application To Support Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Christina Osen, Nicola Litke, Michel Wensing, Aline Weis

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a concept for a mobile health application, an app-based exercise tool, to support the treatment of orofacial myofunctional disorders by speech-language therapists (SLTs).

Method: A sequential mixed research design combining qualitative research and user-centered software development was applied. Qualitative interviews and focus groups were conducted with eight SLTs, one patient and three relatives to gather ideas for an app to support orofacial myofunctional therapy. On the basis of the findings, a paper-based prototype was developed, which was then evaluated by seven end users, to refine the concept of the app.

Results: Qualitative data on …

Iaom President's Greeting 2021: 50th Anniversary Celebration, Amanda Moore Chastain

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The 50^th Anniversary Address delivered by the President of the International Association of Orofacial Myology at the Annual IAOM Convention held online October 22-24, 2021.

Proceedings Of The 50th Annual Iaom Convention

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM) held its 50^th Anniversary Convention virtually in 2021. The Proceedings of the Convention contain abstracts and summaries of the presentations. Topics include: history of orofacial myology, mastication, palatal expansion, temporomandibular disorder, clinical research methods, tethered oral tissues, frenuloplasty, case report, nasal breathing rehabilitation, sleep disordered breathing, parasomnias, evolution and comparative zoology, reticent children, orofacial myofunctional therapy.

The Importance Of The Freeway Space In Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Robert M. Mason, Honor Franklin, Patricia Grant, Ellen B. Role

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The purpose of this article is to explain the importance of evaluating and documenting the freeway space (interdental rest position), in initial examinations and at the completion of therapy in patients exhibiting an open mandibular resting position. The freeway space measurements obtained can be shared with parents, patients, and referral sources. To this end, the muscular, neural, and sensory components related to the freeway space are discussed, as well as airway, dental eruption patterns, tactile feedback, and orthodontic relapse considerations. An extraoral method for evaluating the dimensions of the anterior freeway space is proposed.

An Introduction To Clinical Simulation (Cs) For Orofacial Myologists: Covid-19’S Impact On Clinical Education, Hope C. Reed

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

COVID-19 has forced educational institutions to increasingly rely on technology to provide appropriate clinical experiences for students. Simulations and case studies have been used for decades, but COVID-19 thrust these resources into the forefront of clinical education. Clinical simulation (CS) is the use of alternative methods in the clinical preparation of students (American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association [ASHA], 2020). Forms of CS include simulators, standardized patients, virtual patients, digital mannequins, immersive reality, task trainers, and computer-based interactive experiences and often incorporate case studies (ASHA). This article draws upon clinical education in the primary certification fields for those who practice orofacial myofunctional therapy: speech-language …

The Effect Of An Anti-Slip Surface On Objective Measures Of Tongue Strength In Healthy Adults, Nancy Pearl Solomon, Heather M. Clark

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: Instrumental assessments of tongue strength have provided clinicians with the ability to obtain quantitative measures to document lingual weakness. A technical challenge with a common instrument is that the surface of the of the bulb-shaped sensor is smooth and can be slippery when contacted by the tongue. This study evaluated whether adding a textured layer to the bulb leads to enhanced strength measures in neurologically normal adults. Methods: Maximum-effort maneuvers for anterior and posterior tongue elevation, right and left tongue lateralization, and tongue protrusion were available from 62 healthy adults using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI). The IOPI …

Clinical And Surface Electromyography Evaluation Pre And Post Orofacial Myology Therapy, Luiza Junqeira Ferrer, Adriana Tessitore, Almiro J. Machado Júnior, Eulalia Sakano

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: The objective of this study is to observe the efficacy of orofacial myofunctional therapy in children who breathe through their mouths “mouth breathers” using a clinical assessment and surface electromyography. Method: 30 nasal breath (control group) and 30 mouth breathers (study group) were evaluated initially, and the study group was re-evaluated after 12 sessions of orofacial myofunctional therapy. Assessments involved the MBGR protocol and surface electromyography. Results: The control group had significantly better scores on all nasal breathing tests compared to mouth breathers both before and after therapy. However, mouth breathers demonstrated statistically significant improvements over time with therapy. …

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy With Children Ages 0-4 And Individuals With Special Needs, Robyn Merkel-Walsh

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: The purposes of this paper are to 1) define variations in terminology and treatment methodology for orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) in children 0-4 years of age and in special populations, and 2) compare and contrast service delivery models for children ages 0-4 and individuals with special needs versus older children and children who are neurotypical. Method: A literature review of scholarly articles, professional presentations, poster presentations, blogs, and social media were analyzed using three tiers of evidence-based practice to include: 1) clinical expertise/expert opinion; 2) external and internal evidence and 3) client/patient/caregiver perspectives. Results: Professional texts and publications used …

Guidelines For Successful Online Service Delivery In Orofacial Myology, Charlotte A. Boshart, Sarah James, Patricia K. Fisher

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Purpose: Since the advent of COVID-19, online services within most healthcare fields have become ubiquitous. This article investigates the research regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of delivering online services and provides a tutorial of ideas and information to successfully implement online orofacial myofunctional therapy. Method: This article is a compilation of evidence-based results on the topic of online service delivery and perspectives and experiences shared by three service delivery providers. Results: It is possible to compensate for the interactive differences between in-person and online myofunctional therapy. It is believed that online therapeutic services are an efficient and effective mode of …

Development Of Lip Closing Function During Taking Food Into The Mouth In Children With Down Syndrome, Tomoko Isoda, Fumiyo Tamura, Takeshi Kikutani, Miki Mizukami

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

Children with Down Syndrome (DS) show developmental retardation of gross motor function including acquisition of oral movements related to eating and swallowing. To characterize the process of development/acquisition of eating/swallowing function of children with DS, interlabial pressure (IP) during taking food into the mouth was assessed. This study included 99 children with DS (birth to 4 year-old), and 112 age-matched control children showing typical development. IP during taking food into the mouth was measured as an objective index of lip closing function. The system for measuring IP during taking food into the mouth consisted of a strain gauge-pressure sensor connected …

Enhancing The Evidence Base In Orofacial Myology, Hope C. Reed

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

The purpose of this article is to stimulate research in orofacial myology. The research-to-practice gap may be reduced by highlighting concepts relating to evidence-based practice. Information is also presented on the International Association of Orofacial Myology Institutional Review Board process.

Feasibility Of Using A Tongue-Activated Joystick By Healthy Pre-Teen Children, Mariana Souza Amaral, Ranata Maria Moreira Moraes Furlan, Guilherme Andre Santana, Clarice Magnani Figueiredo

International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

PURPOSE: To investigate the motivation and the effects of: tongue movement direction; resistance force level; repetition number; and sustained tongue contraction duration on tongue motor performance in healthy pre-teen children using computer games. METHODS: An analytical observational cross-sectional study was conducted with 15 healthy 11-13 year-old children with normal lingual strength. The participants played six computer games using a tongue-controlled joystick. The series varied the time for continuous force application on the target (3 and 5 seconds) and the target force level (0.5, 1 and 2 N). After the tests, the participants answered a questionnaire about their impressions and reactions …