Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) FAQs

Considering myofunctional therapy often comes with questions — about how it works, how long it takes, and whether it's right for you or your child. We've answered the most common ones below.

If you don't see your question here, we'd be happy to talk it through — just reach out through our contact page.

1. What is orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT)?

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is the repatterning of the muscle function to support ideal tongue posture, nasal breathing and lip seal. It's like physiotherapy for your mouth.

2. Why was OMT not recommended to me before?

Only a registered health professional with training in Orofacial Myofunctional therapy (OMT) will understand the relationship between your symptoms and how they relate to the form and function of your mouth.

3. Will OMT actually work?

Compliance and commitment to the therapy are necessary for a successful outcome.

4. How does OMT work?

Using the principles of neuroplasticity, OMT re-patterns muscle function to achieve proper oral posture, lip seal, nasal breathing and chewing and swallowing patterns by using repetition of specialized exercises.

5. How long does OMT take?

OMT is personalized treatment based on each individual’s needs. It requires repetition of oral exercises three times daily and takes approximately 20-40 minutes per session. After an initial functional assessment is completed, you can expect weekly appointments that taper off in frequency over the course of 4-6 months. Treatment timelines vary based on individual needs.

6. How much does omt cost?

Cost varies depending on individual needs and complexity. Sessions range between $90-$165 (2026) and the number of sessions needed will be determined by your initial assessment. For insurance questions we recommend contacting your benefit provider.

7. What age is best for omt?

Early intervention with OMT allows for the best possible outcomes for correcting problematic patterns and behaviours as growth and development is still happening. Age 5 to adults of any age are candidates for OMT. We also have programs for babies aged 6 months and older suited to their development.

8. Is OMT painful?

While mild discomfort can occur like any muscle work, pain is not expected with just OMT.

9. Can OMT be done alongside other therapy like orthodontics and speech?

OMT is often a crucial part of successful orthodontic, speech, sleep apnea treatment and other therapy programs. It can also successfully rehabilitate oral function following oral surgery for cancer, facial paralysis and oral trauma. A collaborative approach between providers creates the best outcome for you.

10. Who can provide OMT?

In Ontario, any regulated health professional can take advanced training in Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. This includes Registered Dental Hygienists and Dentists.

11. How can OMT help a tongue tie?

Tongue tie refers to a restriction of the tissue, called a frenulum, under the tongue. If it is too short, tight or attaches to close to the tip of the tongue, it impairs the ability of the tongue to move properly for feeding, swallowing and speech. In children over 5 and adults, OMT is necessary to restore the proper muscle function of the tongue and is done in conjunction with surgical treatment (frenectomy) of the tongue tie, which is performed by a Dentist or Doctor with this specialized training. Infants require specific care and will not be candidates for OMT, but we can provide alternative interventions that will benefit their growth and development.

12. Is mouth breathing harmful?

Mouth breathing can be a habit or necessary due to a structural limitation in the airways. It negatively affects the development of facial structures and their functions including sleep, feeding, learning, hearing and speech. Breathing through the nose is important to overall health and can be corrected with OMT and may involve care from an Ear/Nose/Throat Specialist.

13. Can OMT help with clenching, grinding, and jaw pain?

Orofacial Myofunctional disorders can manifest in many ways and with various symptoms. Clenching, grinding and jaw pain can have diverse causes but they all indicate there is an issue with oral balance and proper muscle function. The right treatment plan can help stabilize the muscles of the face, mouth and jaws to support healthy teeth and jaws, which can alleviate pain.

14. How successful is OMT?

Motivation, compliance and consistency are crucial to optimal outcomes. With a commitment to the customized treatment plan, there is a high rate of success.

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS

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