What is a Myomunchee?
It is the fabulous silicone oral trainer from Australia, developed by the small town dentist Dr. Kevin Bourke. His inspiration was rooted (pun intended!) by observing skulls of prehistoric people, with broad jaws and symmetrical facial development, and correlating that development to the rough diet available.
How does a Myomunchee work?
The “munching” done on the Myomunchee strengthens the muscle ingrams of the vertically oriented muscles of the temporalis and masseter muscles, much like a hard diet would. The Myomunchee promotes oral development through use of these muscles, as well as by preventing a tongue-thrust type of swallow to occur while using the Myomunchee. In order to swallow while training with the Myomunchee, the tongue must go to the roof of the mouth and the lips must seal somewhat tightly around the appliance in order for the swallow mechanism to happen. We are huge fans of this! Quite simply, our opinion rubber stamps Linda D’Onofrio (SLP in Portland, OR): “Let the tongue be the palate expander, and the lips be the braces.”
For more of Linda’s perspective, visit her website: https://www.donofrioslp.com/
Who is Myomunchee right for?
- toddlers needing to transition away from use of pacifier (Myomunchee promotes nasal breathing posture)
- young children with constant colds and ear infections (chewing action on Myomunchee can help clear ears)
- grade school children with seemingly delayed tooth eruption
- adolescents beginning to show signs of orthodontic relapse
- adults with mouth breathing and forward head position
- just about anyone with a tongue-thrusting swallow pattern
- just about anyone transitioning out of active ALF or other orthodontic therapy
How does one use a Myomunchee?
It’s simple. Chew with lips together, and swallow with lips together! Build up your tolerance to how long you can manage. Start with one minute as the goal, and work up to 10 minutes twice daily.
Is Myomunchee the same as Myobrace?
Myomunchee is different from a Myobrace, in that the Myomunchee promotes itself as an oral trainer, whereas Myobrace promotes itself as an orthodontic device.
For more information, visit the official FAQ section on the Myomunchee website: https://myomunchee.com/myo-faq/
Are you a candidate for the Myomunchee? Contact us today to learn more about use in your specific case.
