Sheboygan Myofunctional Therapy

My name is Gina Winkler. I am a Registered Dental Hygienist who noticed certain issues in my patients that weren't getting addressed. I decided to explore this field to be able to give patients the help they need. Rather than turning to the use of medication that may have side effects, Myofunctional Therapy relies on exercises that have few risks and may be quite beneficial. You might need myofunctional therapy if the muscles of your tongue, lips, cheeks, or jaw aren’t working in the right way — because those patterns can quietly cause (or worsen) breathing, dental, speech, and sleep problems. Here are some of the most common reasons people are referred: 1. MOUTH BREATHING Chronic mouth breathing can dry the airway, affect facial growth in children, and change tongue posture. Therapy helps retrain nasal breathing and correct lip seal. 2. TONGUE THRUST OR IMPROPER SWALLOW The tongue pushes forward or sideways against teeth when swallowing. Can cause open bites, orthodontic relapse, or speech issues. 3. INCORRECT TONGUE POSTURE Tongue rests low in the mouth instead of on the palate. Can lead to dental crowding, narrow arches, and poor oral rest position. 4. SPEECH ISSUES Certain sounds (like S, T, D, L) can be distorted if the tongue or lips move inefficiently. Myofunctional therapy complements speech therapy. 5. ORTHODONTIC STABILITY Without retraining muscles, teeth can shift back after braces. Therapy keeps results stable by changing muscle habits. 6. SLEEP DISORDERED BREATHING/SLEEP APNEA Weak oral muscles can contribute to snoring or mild obstructive sleep apnea. Strengthening these muscles can help keep the airway open at night. If you have any questions about treatment or just want to see if I am the right fit for you-please reach out in the above client portal.