Redefining Dental Practices with Airway-Focused Treatment (w/Melissa Mugno) [Ep.98]

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, Melissa Mugno shares her journey from dental assistant to dental hygienist, to orofacial myofunctional therapist, delving into the complexities and benefits of myofunctional therapy.  She discusses the various appliances like Myobrace, MyoMunchie, and the importance of integrating these tools into dental practices.

Melissa emphasizes the need for collaboration between dentists and myofunctional therapists and provides practical advice for implementing airway-focused approaches into a busy dental or orthodontic practice.  She also highlights the significance of educating patients and the dental team to achieve better clinical outcomes. 

This episode is a must-listen for dental and myofunctional therapy professionals looking to expand their practice and improve patient care through interdisciplinary collaboration, as well as parents interested in learning more about a patient-centered, holistic approach to their child’s orthodontic treatment.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:07 Melissa's Journey into Dental and Ortho

00:37 Early Career and Mentorship

01:08 Transition to Myofunctional Therapy

03:33 Personal Struggles and Realizations

17:05 Introduction to Myobrace

20:13 Challenges and Implementation

29:35 Consulting and Airway Focus

50:38 The Certification Process to Become an OMT

51:41 The Role of Speech Therapists and Hygienists

53:36 Licensing and Certification Challenges

55:32 The Importance of Dentist Involvement

55:48 Liability and Insurance in Myofunctional Therapy

56:35 How To Bill for Myofunctional Therapy

01:04:37 The MyoMunchie: A Functional Appliance

01:15:42 Personal Stories and Case Studies

01:26:36 The Business of Myofunctional Therapy

01:33:20 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

LINKS:
-IG: @MelissaTheMouth

-Email: melissa@melissamugno.com

-Dr. Mike’s Orthotown Article: https://www.orthotown.com/images/orthotown/magimages/0325/OrthotownMarch25.pdf
-https://myomunchee.com/dental-discovery-program
-https://melissa-mugno.mykajabi.com/air-certification-course
-https://theorthocoach.com/courses/phase-i-arch-development/?portfolioCats=99