What Is a Myofunctional (Habit / Preventive) Appliance?

  • A Myofunctional appliance is a small removable device that fits inside your child’s mouth. It is sometimes called a “tongue trainer.”

  • It may look like a nightguard, but it does something very different: it helps guide the growth of teeth and jaws and helps reduce future orthodontic problems.

Early Treatment for Children

This appliance is best for children with baby teeth or a mix of baby and adult teeth who are not ready for full braces.

It helps children develop healthy oral habits early, making future teeth alignment and bite stronger and more stable.

Benefits include:

  • Helping children breathe through the nose instead of the mouth

  • Training the tongue to rest in the correct position

  • Getting children used to wearing an appliance comfortably

  • Bad oral habits can affect how the jaws grow and how the teeth meet (leading to issues such as underbites, crossbites, open bites, narrow jaws, or underdeveloped jaws). The goal of treatment is to minimize these problems, making future orthodontics easier and less severe.

Dr. Connie Ling has over 15 years of experience in preventive / early orthodontic treatment, providing expert guidance for healthy jaw and bite development.

Book a consultation today to see if Myobrace therapy is right for your child!

Myobrace® Treatment - Starting Age: 8 (M)

What are the Risks and Limitations?

  • Doctor supervision and prescription should always be followed

    • Certified Orthodontists are the best professionals to determine when the patient is ready for orthodontic treatment or not.

    • If any questions arise, remember to address it to your orthodontist as soon as possible.

  • Generally, the appliance carries low risk when proper oral hygiene is maintained and periodic monitoring is performed—even with long-term use.

    • It is important that the appliance is thoroughly cleaned each day.

    • Our office can provide additional tips and guidance to help ensure effective cleaning and safe use.

  • It is important for the patient to understand that:

    • The extent of improvements depends on patient’s compliance and individual’s biology

    • It is understood that since it involves soft tissues, it is NOT a precise treatment

    • Will still likely require orthodontic treatment after, involving metal fixed appliances, braces and/or clear aligners

    • Myofunctional treatment alone is insufficient to resolve all major orthodontic issues