We treat speech-language problems

Orofacial Myology Disorders (OMD)

Orofacial myology disorders are characterized by exaggerated forward movement of the tongue during speech and swallowing. The tongue may lie too far forward during rest or may protrude between the upper and lower teeth.

A "tongue thrust" swallow is normal in infancy, but usually decreases and disappears as a child grows. If the tongue thrust continues, a child may look, speak and swallow differently than other children of the same age.

OMD most often causes sounds such as /s/, /z/, sh, ch, zh and j to sound differently. Also, the sounds of /t/, /d/, /n/, and /l/ may be produced incorrectly because of weak tongue tip muscles. Sometimes speech is not affected at all by the tongue thrust.

The following may cause OMD:

  • Allergies
  • Enlarged tonsils and adenoids
  • Excessive thumb or finger sucking, lip and fingernail biting, lip picking and teeth clenching and grinding
  • Family heredity

Common disorders related to sucking habits:

  • Malocclusion and open bite
  • Chronic mouth breathing
  • Deformed hard palate
  • Speech development

CCIC, Inc. provides evaluation and treatment of orofacial myology disorders. We also utilize the Unplugging the Thumb program to eliminate thumb sucking in children age seven years and older.

Call our main office central intake number to schedule an appointment. 513-771-7655