Common Referrals After an Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation: A Holistic Approach to Treatment

An Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation (OME) is an important assessment tool used to examine the function and coordination of the muscles of the mouth, face, and airway. It helps identify dysfunctions such as improper tongue posture, breathing issues, or maladaptive swallowing that may contribute to a variety of oral health, speech, and even systemic problems. After an OME, speech therapists often refer patients to specialists who can address these issues more deeply, ensuring that the patient’s condition is treated comprehensively.

Referrals after an OME often include specialists like ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctors, orthodontists, airway-centered dentists, craniosacral chiropractors, and sleep study specialists. Each plays a crucial role in addressing underlying concerns and improving a patient’s quality of life. In this blog post, we’ll explore these common referrals and how they help create a well-rounded treatment plan.

1. ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist)

One of the most common referrals after an OME is to an ENT specialist. This referral is typically made when there are concerns about nasal airway obstruction, chronic sinus infections, tethered oral tissues (e.g., “tongue tie”), or other anatomical issues that might be hindering proper breathing, swallowing, or speaking.

For instance, if an OME reveals that a patient has a chronic mouth-breathing habit, this may point to underlying issues like nasal congestion, enlarged adenoids or tonsils, or a tongue tie. An ENT doctor can evaluate the nasal passages, throat, sinuses, and oral structures to determine if any abnormalities or blockages are present. Treating these issues can help resolve symptoms like mouth breathing and ensure that the patient can breathe properly through their nose, which is crucial for overall health and proper orofacial function. 

2. Orthodontist

Orthodontic referrals are another common outcome of an OME, especially when there are concerns about palate shape or misalignment of the teeth, jaw, or bite. Oral dysfunction such as incorrect tongue posture or noxious oral habits like thumb sucking, can contribute to or exacerbate dental malocclusions (improper bite).

An orthodontist can assess the alignment of the teeth and jaws as well as palatal shape and create a treatment plan to address issues such as an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or a narrow palate. Early intervention by an orthodontist can prevent or correct these issues, improving not only dental aesthetics but also proper function. 

3. Airway-Centered Dentist

Airway-centered dentists specialize in evaluating and treating conditions related to the airway and its impact on oral health. A referral to an airway-centered dentist is particularly important for patients who present with signs of airway dysfunction, such as snoring, sleep apnea, or chronic breathing difficulties.

An OME might reveal that a patient’s breathing issues are connected to poor tongue posture, mouth breathing, tongue tie, or an underdeveloped jaw. Airway-centered dentists focus on improving oral and facial structures to enhance airway function, using techniques such as the fitting of oral appliances or recommending specific dental treatments that help expand the airways. These specialists also collaborate with other healthcare providers to address issues related to sleep-disordered breathing. 

4. Craniosacral Chiropractor

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that focuses on releasing tension around your body’s connective tissue network called the fascia. Patients may benefit from this therapy if they have tension in the head, neck, or jaw, or suffer from chronic headaches, TMD disorders, or neck pain.

Craniosacral therapy helps alleviate muscle tension and promotes relaxation of the facial and jaw muscles. This approach can be particularly useful for patients with OMDs, as it complements orofacial myofunctional therapy by addressing any structural or tension-related issues that may be inhibiting optimal function. By supporting the proper alignment of the skull and neck, craniosacral therapy can help patients breathe better, swallow more effectively, and reduce discomfort in the face and neck.

5. Sleep Study

A sleep study is often recommended for patients who show signs of sleep-disordered breathing, such as loud snoring, restless sleep, or excessive daytime fatigue. During an OME, the clinician may identify risk factors for conditions like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or other sleep-related issues that stem from poor tongue posture or airway obstruction.

A referral to a sleep specialist for polysomnography (sleep study) can provide critical insights into the patient's breathing patterns while they sleep. A sleep study can diagnose conditions like sleep apnea, which can have serious long-term health effects, including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and impaired cognitive function. If the sleep study identifies a sleep disorder, treatment options such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy, dental appliances, or lifestyle changes may be recommended.

Conclusion: Building a Comprehensive Treatment Plan

Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluations provide essential information about the coordination of oral and facial muscles, breathing patterns, and swallowing behaviors. However, because these functions are closely linked to many other systems in the body, it’s important to consider referrals to specialists who can address any underlying issues.

By referring patients to ENT specialists, orthodontists, airway-centered dentists, craniosacral chiropractors, or sleep study providers, speech therapists can create a holistic, interdisciplinary treatment plan. These specialists work together to ensure that all aspects of a patient’s orofacial health are addressed, leading to better overall health and quality of life. Ultimately, the goal is to support patients in achieving optimal health by taking a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to their care.