Why Myofunctional Therapy Is Not Covered by Insurance — and Why Many Families Still Choose It

Learning that myofunctional therapy is not covered by insurance can feel discouraging at first. This is a very common concern, and it’s completely understandable to pause when considering any out-of-pocket care.

We believe it’s important for families to understand why this therapy falls outside traditional insurance models—and how, for many people, it becomes a supportive investment in long-term health rather than an added burden.

Insurance Models Focus on Treatment — Not Always Prevention

Most insurance plans are designed to cover care once a problem is clearly diagnosed and requires a procedure, appliance, or medication. Preventative and functional therapies, even those with strong long-term benefits, are often excluded.

Myofunctional therapy focuses on how the muscles of the mouth, face, and airway work together every day—during breathing, rest, feeding, chewing, swallowing, and sleep. These patterns influence:

• Airway health and breathing

• Sleep quality and restfulness

• Jaw growth and facial development

• Orthodontic stability

• Oral habits such as mouth breathing, tongue thrust, clenching, or grinding

Because therapy emphasizes education, awareness, and retraining functional patterns, it does not fit neatly into insurance-based billing systems.

Supporting the Body Early Can Reduce Future Costs

When underlying muscle patterns are not addressed, families may later encounter:

• Longer or repeated orthodontic treatment

• Orthodontic relapse after braces or aligners

• Ongoing use of night guards or oral appliances

• Sleep-related interventions

• Additional therapy referrals over time

Myofunctional therapy works to support healthy function at the foundation, which can help reduce the likelihood of needing multiple or ongoing interventions later. While therapy is not a guarantee against future care, many families appreciate taking a proactive step.

A Gentle Approach That Works With the Body

Rather than relying solely on appliances or medications to manage symptoms, myofunctional therapy helps the body learn more efficient, sustainable patterns.

Therapy may support:

• Proper tongue rest posture

• Comfortable nasal breathing

• Balanced muscle coordination

• Reduced strain on the jaw and airway

For some clients, this leads to improved comfort and stability alongside orthodontic or dental care—and in some cases, less reliance on additional appliances.

Care That Is Personalized and Unhurried

Insurance-based systems often limit appointment time and flexibility. Myofunctional therapy allows for:

• Comprehensive, unrushed assessments

• Individualized goals based on your concerns

• Education and coaching you can apply at home

• Collaboration with your dental and medical providers

This level of personalized care is often what families value most, even when insurance coverage is not available.

An Investment in Long-Term Comfort and Health

Families choose myofunctional therapy to support:

• Easier breathing and more restful sleep

• Efficient feeding and swallowing

• Stable orthodontic results

• Reduced tension in the jaw, face, and neck

• Confidence in addressing root causes, not just symptoms

Rather than paying repeatedly to manage the same concerns, therapy focuses on building habits and function that can last.

I am Here to Talk Through Your Questions

Choosing out-of-pocket care is a personal decision, and I am happy to support you through it. I welcome conversations about:

• Your specific concerns and goals

• What therapy can realistically support

• Expected time and financial commitment

Your health and your comfort matter. I am here to help you make an informed, confident choice.