Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) working with orofacial myology focus on improving the strength, coordination, and function of the muscles in the face, mouth, and jaw to support:

• Correct tongue posture and movement (e.g., preventing tongue thrusting)
• Proper swallowing patterns (to reduce issues like tongue thrust swallow)
• Lip strength and closure (important for speech clarity and eating)
• Breathing patterns (encouraging nasal breathing instead of mouth breathing)
• Speech clarity by addressing muscle weaknesses or atypical movements affecting sounds
• Eliminating oral habits such as thumb sucking or nail biting that impact muscle function