10/26/2025
Why Muscles Matter More Than Braces:
Orthodontics has traditionally focused on mechanics: wires, brackets, and retainers that move teeth into alignment. However, long-term success depends not just on tooth position, but on the function behind the structure.
Poor oral posture, including mouth breathing and low tongue position, contributes to unfavorable facial development, reduced airway size, and instability in orthodontic results. These muscle patterns often go unaddressed, leading to orthodontic relapse even after years of treatment.
Lasting change requires the correction of these underlying muscle habits. Myofunctional therapy, which restores proper breathing, tongue posture, and muscle balance, supports natural growth and creates conditions for stable, healthy outcomes.
Muscles shape the face and determine function. Wires alone cannot overcome poor habits left unresolved.
- This post is based on the findings of Dr. Bill Hang, DDS, MSD, a leader in airway-centered, face-focused orthodontics.
If you’re curious about how improving muscle function could support your orthodontic results, feel free to reach out. OMT of New York is here to help!
