An orofacial myofunctional disorder (OMD) is when there is an abnormal lip, jaw, or tongue position during rest, swallowing or speech. OMD can be caused by upper airway obstruction, chronic finger or thumb sucking, extended pacifier or bottle use, structural differences and genetics. OMD can result in speech distortion, particularly frontal lisp, chronic open mouth positioning, tongue thrust or overjet and open bite.
A speech-language pathologist assesses the structures and the way the lip, cheeks, teeth, jaws and tongue move. This is done by watching the child speak and also watching how they swallow foods and liquids. Pictures are taken to record the child's dental structures. The speech-language pathologist may recommend the child see an ENT doctor, or orthodontist.
