Are you a dental hygienist with a passion for holistic oral health and an eagerness to expand your skillset? If so, myofunctional therapy could be the perfect avenue for your career growth. This emerging field offers a unique blend of oral health expertise and patient-centered care. But how do you know if it’s the right path for you? Here are five signs to help you determine if myofunctional therapy aligns with your aspirations.
1. You’re Curious About Holistic Oral Health:
If you find yourself curious about the broader aspects of oral health beyond routine cleanings, myofunctional therapy could be your calling. This therapy delves into the connection between oral function and overall well-being. If the idea of addressing underlying issues like tongue posture, swallowing patterns, and breathing habits excites you, you’re already on the right track.
2. You’re Eager to Expand Your Skillset:
As a dental hygienist, you have a strong foundation in oral health and development. Myofunctional therapy offers an opportunity to expand your skills into oral function and offer more comprehensive care. If you’re passionate about continuous learning and excited by the prospect of mastering new techniques, myofunctional therapy might be a natural lateral career move for you.
3. You’re Drawn to a Holistic Approach:
If you believe that oral health and function is intricately connected to overall wellness, myofunctional therapy aligns perfectly with your values. This approach focuses not only on correcting functional issues but also on enhancing patients’ overall quality of life. If you’re passionate about treating the whole person rather than just symptoms, myofunctional therapy could be a rewarding career choice.
4. You Seek a Supportive Community:
Joining a community of like-minded professionals can be invaluable on your journey. The Intentional Hygienist Facebook group and community is a fantastic resource for learning more about myofunctional therapy, in addition to other communities like OMT for the RDH. Connecting with others who share your passion can provide insights, inspiration, and a sense of belonging that nurtures your growth.
5. You’re Driven by Patient Transformation:
Do you get a sense of fulfillment from helping patients improve their lives? Myofunctional therapy often leads to significant transformations in patients’ oral health and overall well-being. If you’re excited by the idea of guiding patients through positive changes and witnessing their progress, this path could be incredibly rewarding.
In conclusion, myofunctional therapy is an exciting opportunity for dental hygienists who are ready to expand their horizons. If you resonate with a holistic approach to oral health, have a thirst for knowledge, seek a supportive community, and are passionate about patient transformation, myofunctional therapy might be your true calling.
But what if it’s not for you?
It’s hard to know without understanding the daily commitment and earning potential. Here’s my unfiltered take on some hard truths in the field.
To learn more and connect with professionals who share your interests, consider joining the Intentional Hygienist Facebook group and community. It’s a space where you can explore myofunctional therapy, exchange ideas, and get inspired by fellow dental hygienists. Your journey into myofunctional therapy awaits – are you ready to embrace the path of holistic oral health and patient well-being?
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