Improve Your Oral Health With
Myofunctional Therapy in
Polaris, OH
What Is Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy in Polaris, OH, focuses on improving the function and coordination of the facial, mouth, and throat muscles. At Stephanie Briggs, DDS, we offer personalized myofunctional therapy to help patients address issues such as improper tongue posture, mouth breathing, and swallowing difficulties. We understand that breaking long-standing habits like thumb-sucking or pacifier use can be challenging for both children and their families. That’s why we offer a specialized Habit Correction Program under the umbrella of myofunctional therapy. Designed for children aged 6 and older who genuinely want to stop but have struggled to do so despite multiple attempts, this five-week program focuses on identifying the root causes of the habit. Through positive reinforcement, a team-based approach involving parents and siblings, and targeted myofunctional therapy techniques, we help children overcome these habits for good—without the frustration and tears that often accompany over-the-counter methods.
Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy offers a wide range of benefits for both children and adults by addressing improper oral habits and improving muscle function. Some of the key benefits include:
- Corrects tongue posture and improves swallowing patterns
- Encourages nasal breathing over mouth breathing
- Helps eliminate harmful habits like thumb-sucking and tongue thrusting
- Supports proper dental alignment and jaw development
- Improves speech clarity and reduces speech issues
- Enhances overall facial muscle coordination
- Contributes to better sleep and reduced snoring by promoting proper airway function
Myofunctional Therapy for Thumb-Sucking
Thumb sucking is a normal, common habit among babies and toddlers, often serving as a self-soothing mechanism. Children may suck their thumbs or fingers for various reasons, including feelings of tiredness, fear, illness, or stress. While this habit can be comforting and calming in the short term, prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can lead to long-term effects if not addressed. At Stephanie Briggs, DDS, we offer a Thumb Sucking Elimination Program as part of our myofunctional therapy services. This program is designed to address the underlying causes of thumb sucking and help children break the habit, preventing potential issues and promoting healthier oral development.
How We Help Break the Thumb-Sucking Habit
Thumb Sucking Cessation Programs or Habit Elimination Programs are forms of behavior modification that can successfully eliminate thumb-sucking. Unlike appliances, which often have a low success rate in addressing both sucking habits and tongue thrusting, our program focuses on empowering the child through supportive and effective behavioral strategies. Instead of relying on appliances to deter the habit, our approach emphasizes:
Positive reinforcement techniques
This method not only helps eliminate the habit but also fosters socially acceptable behavior, clearer speech, better dental health, and a boost in self-confidence. A crucial factor in the success of this program is the child’s genuine desire to quit, as motivation plays a key role in overcoming the habit.
Customized exercises
These exercises strengthen the tongue and facial muscles, helping the child become more aware of their oral habits and adopt better patterns.
Parental guidance
We offer parents practical advice and strategies for helping their child stop thumb-sucking at home, creating a team approach to habit-breaking.
Why Choose Stephanie Briggs, DDS?
At Stephanie Briggs, DDS, we are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care that meets the unique needs of every patient. Our focus is on creating a comfortable, welcoming environment where you can receive top-quality dental care tailored to your goals. Here’s why patients trust us:
- Customized Treatment Plans
- Advanced Dental Technology
- Experienced Team
- Patient-Centered Approach
Why Choose Stephanie Briggs, DDS?
At Stephanie Briggs, DDS, we are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care that meets the unique needs of every patient. Our focus is on creating a comfortable, welcoming environment where you can receive top-quality dental care tailored to your goals. Here’s why patients trust us:
Customized Treatment Plans
Advanced Dental Technology
Experienced Team
Patient-Centered Approach
Contact Us
Start Your Journey Toward Better Oral Health
Is your child ready to break free from thumb-sucking or pacifier use? We’re here to help! Reach out to Stephanie Briggs, DDS to learn more about our Habit Correction Program and how myofunctional therapy can support your child’s development.
Schedule a consultation today by calling our office or completing our online contact form. Let’s work together to create a personalized plan that helps your child form healthier habits and gain the confidence they deserve.