It is important to understand that myofunctional therapy is NOT speech therapy. It can however, significantly impact the success of speech therapy when used together! Myofunctional therapy focuses on strength and coordination of the muscles, which helps the speech therapist teach coordination of speech sounds.

Some common speech sound concerns that are related to myofunctional impairments are:

• “R” and “L” sounds: Often a sign of a tongue-tie. If the tongue-tie is not addressed, speech therapy will likely be difficult or unsuccessful because there is a physical restriction present that does not allow the tongue to form proper sounds.
• “S” sounds: Commonly termed a lisp, can be a sign of a tongue thrust swallow pattern, which is often accompanied by mouth breathing.
• “T”, “D”, “N”, “L” sounds: Often a sign of a weak tongue, as these sound require very specific movement and placement of the tongue.

Myofunctional therapy corrects position, strength, and tone of the tongue. In some cases, myofunctional therapy (and/or tongue-tie release, if indicated) may help with some speech concerns. However, you may still require speech therapy after completing, or along with myofunctional therapy.