Myofunctional therapy. Part 1: Culture, industrialisation and the shrinking human face

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Human physiology
• Dental science

Background:

• Human diet and food preparation methods have evolved significantly over 300,000 years.
• Dietary and epigenetic factors are linked to rising orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) and human malocclusion phenotypes (HMPs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence and nature of OMDs and HMPs.
• To discuss strategies for effective solutions and early childhood interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of case reports.
• Analysis of historical and contemporary dietary and epigenetic influences.
• Synthesis of current research on OMDs and HMPs.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in OMDs and HMPs globally.
• Identification of diet, food processing, and epigenetic factors as key contributors.
• Growing need for early intervention strategies.

Conclusions:

• Environmental and lifestyle changes are driving an increase in OMDs and HMPs.
• Early diagnosis and management are essential for addressing these conditions in children.
• Further research into effective treatment strategies is warranted.