Myofunctional Therapy
Orthodontic Relapse
Braces straighten teeth — but healthy oral function plays an important role in maintaining those results. If tongue posture, lip function, or breathing patterns are contributing to abnormal forces on the teeth, those patterns may contribute to orthodontic relapse over time. Myofunctional therapy helps retrain the muscles and functional patterns involved in breathing, swallowing, and resting posture, supporting the long-term stability of your orthodontic results.
Orthodontic relapse — teeth moving back toward their original positions after treatment — is one of the most frustrating experiences for patients and orthodontists alike. In most cases, the cause is not a retainer problem. It is an unresolved muscle imbalance that was present before treatment began and continues to exert force on the teeth every day.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Teeth shifting after braces or aligners are removed
- Retainer no longer fitting properly
- Spaces reopening between front teeth
- Open bite returning after orthodontic closure
- Crowding recurring in the lower front teeth
- Tongue visible between teeth at rest or when swallowing
- Mouth breathing or lip incompetence
- History of multiple rounds of orthodontic treatment
Why Teeth Move Back
The average person swallows 1,500 to 2,000 times per day. Each swallow with a tongue thrust exerts several ounces of pressure against the teeth — pressure that accumulates to pounds of force daily. No retainer can fully counteract this constant load. Myofunctional therapy eliminates the thrust pattern itself, removing the force that drives relapse.
The Role of Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing changes the balance of pressure inside and outside the dental arches. Normally, the tongue resting on the palate and the lips sealed together create an equilibrium that keeps teeth in place. When the mouth hangs open and the tongue drops to the floor of the mouth, the cheeks exert inward pressure without the tongue pushing back — causing the arches to narrow and teeth to crowd.
When to Start Myofunctional Therapy
Ideally, myofunctional therapy begins before orthodontic treatment starts. Correcting muscle patterns first means the teeth move into a stable environment and are far less likely to relapse. For patients already in treatment or post-treatment, therapy is still highly effective — it is never too late to address the root cause. Kathleen works closely with orthodontists to coordinate timing.
Protecting Your Investment
Orthodontic treatment represents a significant investment of time and money. Myofunctional therapy is the most effective way to protect that investment long-term. A short course of targeted exercises — practiced daily at home — can make the difference between stable, lasting results and a return to the orthodontist. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to find out if therapy is right for you.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Kathleen McQuestion offers a free 15-minute phone consultation. Reach out today to learn how myofunctional therapy can help you.