As an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapists serving families from Hershey to Carlisle, we frequently hear parents ask: “Why does my kid eat with their mouth open?”
While some might dismiss noisy eating as just poor table manners, our Camp Hill and Harrisburg specialists recognize these signs as potential indicators of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD) – conditions that can affect your child’s development far beyond the dinner table.
How to Tell if Your Child’s Eating Habits Need Professional Attention
Children between ages 4-12 commonly display these warning signs:
- Consistent loud chewing or smacking sounds during meals
- Difficulty keeping lips closed while eating
- Frequent food or drink spilling from the mouth
- Messy eating habits that don’t improve with age
- Complaints about fatigue during eating
If you’ve noticed any of these patterns in your child, especially if they persist despite reminders, it may be time to consult with an OMT specialist near you in Central Pennsylvania.
The Hidden Causes of Noisy Eating Habits
Breathing Pattern Disorders
Many children who exhibit noisy eating habits are actually struggling with mouth breathing patterns. Working closely with local ENT specialists and pediatricians, we’ve observed that chronic mouth breathing often leads to open-mouth eating and associated challenges.
Muscle Weakness and Coordination
Just like any other skill, proper eating requires coordinated muscle function. Our certified myofunctional therapists can identify if your child’s noisy eating stems from weak oral muscles or poor coordination – issues we regularly treat in our Camp Hill and Harrisburg offices.
Tongue Positioning Problems
Through our extensive experience serving Central PA families, we’ve found that approximately 60% of children with noisy eating habits also show signs of incorrect tongue positioning or restricted movement (tongue-tie). These conditions are fully treatable through specialized OMT exercises and techniques.
Treatment Journey at Valley OMT
Initial Assessment
Your journey begins with a consultation at our welcoming Camp Hill and Harrisburg office. Our specialists conduct a thorough evaluation using child-friendly assessment tools, making the experience comfortable and engaging for children of all ages.
Customized Treatment Plan
Every child receives an individualized treatment program that typically includes:
- Weekly 30-minute sessions with our experienced OMT specialists
- Fun, age-appropriate exercises to strengthen oral muscles
- An online learning platform with videos coordinated to assigned exercises
Proven Results
Working with families throughout Cumberland, Dauphin, and York counties, we’ve helped hundreds of children develop proper eating habits. Many parents report significant improvements within 3-4 months of starting treatment.
Long-term Benefits Beyond Better Eating
Addressing noisy eating habits through Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can prevent:
- Future orthodontic complications
- Decrease risk for cavities
- Improved diet and variety of foods
- Speech development issues
- Sleep breathing disorders
- Social confidence challenges
Take the First Step
Don’t wait to address your child’s eating challenges. Contact us or call us at (717) 288-6122 to schedule your initial assessment.
Located just minutes from Routes 11/15, I-83, and I-81 our practices makes it convenient for families throughout the region to access expert OMT care. Let our experienced team help your child develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.