Exploring the Experiences of Dental Hygienists as Myofunctional Therapists.

Abstract

Purpose Orofacial myofunctional disorders are disruptive patterns that can impact orofacial growth and development. The purpose of this study was to explore orofacial myology education, certification, and practice by dental hygienists (DH) as well as the advantages and barriers to the practice of orofacial myology for DHs.Methods A phenomenological heuristic qualitative approach was used for this study. Purposive sampling was used to solicit participants with experience in orofacial myology through the online membership lists of the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM), Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (AOMT), Breathe Institute and Neo-Health Services. Semi-structured, virtual interviews, personal experiences of the primary investigator, and historical documents were used for triangulation of the collected data to identify emerging themes.Results Data analysis resulted in five core themes and nine sub-themes. The core themes included: uniform credentialing, autonomous workforce models, identity distinctiveness, business management, and access to myofunctional care.Conclusion Cost and complexity were the largest barriers to the practice of myofunctional therapy, while autonomy and a wide array of work assignments were identified as advantages. While myofunctional therapy education and certification can be complex and costly, this specialty deserves further attention as part of the delivery of preventive and therapeutic oral and systemic health care.