Orthodontic treatment has evolved far beyond simply moving teeth into straighter positions. Today, true success is measured not only by how a smile looks, but by how well it functions and how stable the results remain over time. One of the most important—and often overlooked—factors in long-term orthodontic outcomes is muscle behavior. This is where myofunctional therapy plays a powerful supporting role.

At Hansen Orthodontics & Aesthetics, orthodontic care is approached holistically, recognizing that teeth, jaws, muscles, and breathing patterns all work together. When these elements are in balance, orthodontic results are more predictable, comfortable, and lasting.

Why Muscles Matter in Orthodontics

The mouth is surrounded by a complex system of muscles that influence how teeth move and where they settle. These muscles are active every time we speak, swallow, chew, and breathe. If they function improperly, they can place constant pressure on the teeth—even after orthodontic treatment is complete.

Common issues linked to muscle imbalance include:

• Teeth shifting after braces
  
• Difficulty maintaining alignment
  
• Open bites or spacing relapse
  
• Jaw tension or discomfort
  
• Inefficient breathing patterns
  

Orthodontic treatment works best when muscle function supports the new tooth positions rather than fighting against them.

What Is Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional therapy is a structured program designed to retrain the muscles of the face, mouth, and tongue. The goal is to establish healthy patterns that support proper oral function and orthodontic stability.

This therapy focuses on:

• Correct swallowing habits
  
• Proper tongue positioning
  
• Balanced facial muscle activity
  
• Improved breathing patterns
  
• Long-term functional support
  

When combined with orthodontics, myofunctional therapy helps address the root causes of many alignment issues.

The Importance of Tongue Posture Therapy

One of the most critical elements of myofunctional care is tongue posture therapy. The tongue is a powerful muscle, and its resting position has a direct impact on dental alignment and jaw development.

Healthy tongue posture typically involves:

• The tongue resting gently against the roof of the mouth
  
• Lips closed at rest
  
• Teeth lightly touching or slightly apart
  
• Nasal breathing
  

Incorrect tongue posture can push teeth out of alignment over time, even after orthodontic treatment.

How Muscle Function Orthodontics Supports Lasting Results

Muscle function orthodontics recognizes that muscles can either stabilize or disrupt orthodontic outcomes. If muscle habits are not addressed, teeth may slowly move back toward their original positions.

When muscle function is optimized:

• Orthodontic results are more stable
  
• Retention becomes more effective
  
• Jaw comfort often improves
  
• Facial balance is supported
  
• Long-term success is more likely
  

This approach shifts orthodontics from a purely mechanical process to a functional one.

Understanding Orthodontics and Tongue Position

The relationship between orthodontics and tongue position is especially important in both children and adults. A low or forward tongue posture can interfere with bite correction and facial development.

Poor tongue position may contribute to:

• Open bites
  
• Narrow dental arches
  
• Crowding
  
• Speech issues
  
• Airway restriction
  

By addressing tongue posture alongside orthodontic treatment, patients can achieve more balanced and sustainable outcomes.

The Value of Myofunctional Exercises Benefits

A key component of therapy involves targeted exercises designed to retrain muscles. The myofunctional exercises benefits go far beyond orthodontics and often improve overall oral comfort.

Patients may experience:

• Improved swallowing patterns
  
• Reduced jaw tension
  
• Better lip seal at rest
  
• Enhanced awareness of oral habits
  
• Greater treatment stability
  

These exercises are typically simple, non-invasive, and easy to incorporate into daily routines.

Supporting Airway and Muscle Balance

Proper muscle function is closely tied to breathing. Airway and muscle balance work together to support healthy oral posture and efficient oxygen intake.

When muscle balance improves, patients may notice:

• More consistent nasal breathing
  
• Reduced mouth breathing
  
• Better sleep quality
  
• Less facial tension
  
• Improved overall comfort
  

This balance supports both orthodontic success and general well-being.

Myofunctional Therapy for Children and Teens

In younger patients, muscle habits often develop early and can shape facial growth. Addressing these habits during orthodontic treatment can be especially impactful.

Benefits for children and teens include:

• Supporting proper jaw development
  
• Reducing relapse risk
  
• Encouraging healthy breathing habits
  
• Improving treatment efficiency
  
• Promoting long-term stability
  

Early intervention can simplify orthodontic care and improve outcomes later in life.

Adults Can Benefit Too

Myofunctional therapy is not limited to children. Adults undergoing orthodontic treatment—or even those who have completed treatment in the past—can benefit significantly.

Adult patients often seek therapy to:

• Prevent post-treatment shifting
  
• Reduce jaw or facial tension
  
• Improve tongue posture
  
• Support bite correction
  
• Enhance overall comfort
  

With consistency, adults can retrain muscle patterns at any age.

How Myofunctional Therapy Enhances Orthodontic Treatment Support

Orthodontic appliances move teeth into healthier positions, but muscles determine whether those positions are maintained. This is why myofunctional care is considered valuable orthodontic treatment support rather than a separate service.

When combined effectively, orthodontics and myofunctional therapy:

• Work toward the same functional goals
  
• Improve treatment predictability
  
• Reduce the need for retreatment
  
• Enhance patient awareness
  
• Support long-term success
  

This collaborative approach benefits patients both during and after orthodontic care.

What to Expect from Myofunctional Therapy

Therapy typically begins with an evaluation of oral habits, muscle patterns, and breathing behavior. A customized plan is then created based on individual needs.

Patients can expect:

• Personalized exercise programs
  
• Regular progress monitoring
  
• Collaboration with orthodontic care
  
• Gradual habit changes
  
• Support and education throughout treatment
  

Consistency is key, and most patients find the process manageable and empowering.

Why Hansen Orthodontics & Aesthetics Embraces a Functional Approach

Hansen Orthodontics & Aesthetics believes orthodontic success depends on more than straight teeth. By addressing muscle function, posture, and habits, the practice helps patients achieve results that last.

Patients appreciate this approach because it offers:

• Comprehensive evaluations
  
• Focus on long-term stability
  
• Personalized treatment planning
  
• Integration of functional principles
  
• A commitment to overall oral wellness
  

This philosophy reflects the future of orthodontic care.

Signs You May Benefit from Myofunctional Therapy

You or your child may benefit from therapy if you notice:

• Mouth breathing
  
• Tongue thrusting
  
• Difficulty maintaining orthodontic results
  
• Jaw tension or discomfort
  
• Speech or swallowing concerns
  

An evaluation can help determine whether therapy would support your orthodontic goals.

Conclusion

Orthodontic success depends on more than aligning teeth—it requires harmony between muscles, posture, and function. Myofunctional therapy plays a vital role in supporting stable, comfortable, and lasting orthodontic outcomes by addressing the habits that influence alignment every day. When orthodontics and muscle function work together, patients are empowered with results that support both their smiles and their long-term oral health.