About myofunctional therapy (OMFT)
OMFT can be helpful for:
- thumb sucking
- open mouth behavior
- mouth breathing or snoring
- abnormal swallowing pattern, tongue thrust
- abnormal tongue position
- lisping
- orthodontic treatment or preparation for it
- recurring ENT complaints
- weak oral muscles or excessive tension
- grinding, bruxism
- jaw clenching
- incorrect chewing, such as one-sided chewing or smacking
- concerns related to tongue-tie restriction
Referrals often come from dentists, orthodontists, or ENT specialists. An intake without referral is also possible. This is called Direct Access Speech Therapy.
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Yes. Myofunctional therapy can also be beneficial for adults. Incorrectly learned oral behavior, such as open mouth posture, mouth breathing, or an abnormal swallowing pattern, does not disappear on its own and can continue to cause or worsen symptoms.
In adults who need braces for the second time, underlying oral habits often play a role, such as low tongue position at rest, insufficient lip closure, or an abnormal swallowing pattern. When these functions are not addressed, there is a risk that the teeth will shift again, even after orthodontic treatment.
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Intake and assessment
During the intake, we thoroughly examine:
- oral behavior at rest and in function
- tongue position, lip closure and breathing
- swallowing pattern and speech
- dental and jaw development
- posture
Measurements are taken and intra- and extra-oral photos are made to support the assessment. After the intake, clear feedback and advice follow.
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Treatment and progress
The treatment consists of targeted exercises and practical advice, tailored to age and daily functioning. The focus is on:
- lip closure
- tongue position at rest
- a functional swallowing pattern
- nasal breathing
Home practice is an essential part of the treatment. For lasting results, it is important that the newly learned oral behavior eventually becomes natural. Where appropriate, we use supportive aids such as myofunctional trainers, Myosa or Myobrace, and practical reminders. Together we look at how this behavior can be feasibly integrated into the daily routine.
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The duration of a myofunctional treatment varies per person and depends on the question, age, motivation, and home practice.
Per session
A treatment session lasts 25 minutes.
Entire program
- On average, 12 to 18 treatments are needed to learn and automate new oral behavior. These are usually monthly appointments. Sometimes it is necessary to schedule appointments more frequently temporarily.
- Some clients benefit from just a few check-ups and targeted advice.
- In certain cases, such as with orthodontics or when automation requires more time, a longer program may be appropriate. Evaluation moments are then scheduled, for example, every three months.
Between sessions, practice takes place at home. This is an important part of the treatment’s success. During the program, progress is regularly evaluated and adjusted as needed.
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Practical information
Mondeling Speech Therapy operates at multiple locations:
- Amersfoort, Utrechtseweg 45, Tuesday through Thursday
- Hilversum, ’s-Gravelandseweg 86e, Friday until 12:00 PM
- Loosdrecht, Eikenlaan 51, Friday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
When planning an intake and follow-up appointments, the most suitable location and time are considered.
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Mondeling Speech Therapy works without contracts with health insurers.
Speech therapy falls under basic insurance. With a combination policy, speech therapy is in most cases largely or fully reimbursed, depending on the policy conditions and outstanding deductible. The exact reimbursement varies per insurer.
At www.mondeling-logopedie.nl/rates you will find an overview of rates and additional information.
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Collaboration and contact
Awareness is a first step. Pay attention to:
- mouth closed at rest
- breathing through the nose
- tongue against the palate at rest
During or after the intake, you will always receive concrete and achievable advice.
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