A Collaborative Airway Journey

Every airway journey looks a little different. This patient began with an orthodontic consultation to evaluate jaw development and dental alignment before starting myofunctional therapy.

Over the course of 12 myofunctional therapy sessions, we focused on building healthy oral function by improving nasal breathing, establishing proper tongue posture, strengthening lip seal, and retraining swallowing patterns. These small, consistent changes help create a more stable foundation for orthodontic treatment and long-term oral health.

By the end of therapy, the patient demonstrated improved nasal breathing, a more functional swallow pattern, and healthier tongue posture at rest. We also noticed a reduction in the dark circles beneath the eyes—a change that can sometimes be seen as breathing and sleep quality improve.

Now, the patient is returning to their orthodontist to continue the next phase of treatment with improved oral function in place. Myofunctional therapy and orthodontics often work hand in hand, helping address not only how the teeth fit together, but also the breathing and muscle patterns that influence long-term stability.

Results vary from person to person, but this case highlights the value of addressing function alongside orthodontic treatment.