TGFD Club Call # 122

Why It Matters

Addressing myofunctional disorders during menopause can improve sleep, oral health, and overall quality of life, creating new revenue streams for integrated dental‑wellness practices.

Key Takeaways

• Oral facial myofunctional therapy improves menopause-related airway and sleep health.
• Low tongue posture leads to dental misalignment, gum disease, and breathing issues.
• Hormonal estrogen decline reduces muscle tone, increasing airway collapsibility.
• Simple exercises (tongue placement, nasal breathing) can correct dysfunctional patterns.
• Certified coaches integrate nutrition, hormone support, and myofunctional therapy for women.

Summary

The TGFD Club Call #122 centered on oral‑facial myofunctional disorders (OFMD) and their relevance to perimenopause and menopause. Guest speaker Chris Zomb, a certified myofunctional therapist and women’s‑health coach, explained how muscle tone in the tongue, jaw, and airway declines with estrogen loss, leading to airway collapse, sleep disturbances, and dental problems. Zomb highlighted that low tongue posture—resting on the teeth or floor of the mouth—disrupts swallowing, speech, and nasal breathing, while also promoting malocclusion, gum inflammation, and bruxism. He linked bisphosphonate use to mandibular necrosis and described how proper tongue placement supports palate development, reduces overjet, and stabilizes orthodontic outcomes. Practical data included a case of a 10‑year‑old who became a mouth‑breather, developing a retruded chin and gummy smile. The session featured personal anecdotes, such as Zomb’s own transition from weight‑stable adult to “magic menopause” coach, and interactive exercises where participants tested tongue‑to‑roof positioning while sipping water. Notable quotes included, “The tongue is a breathing organ; keep it up to keep the airway open,” and a reminder that “supporting hormones and inflammation together prevents the body from working harder.” Implications are clear: integrating OFMD therapy with hormonal and nutritional coaching offers a holistic solution for women experiencing menopausal symptoms, while also opening a niche market for dental and wellness professionals seeking to address sleep apnea, bruxism, and facial structural changes.

Original Description

Call Highlights — Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders & Menopause

*Host: Dr. Anna Cabeca | Guest Expert:* Chris Zombek

Be sure to check out Dr Anna’s new book, MenuPause.

Get your sneak peek: dranna.com/gfd-sneak

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Take Dr Anna’s quiz and get matched with your ideal menu: dranna.com/gfd-quiz

Get your Weight Loss Checklist as well: dranna.com/gfd-checklist

Try her Keto-Green Recipes for Menopause at dranna.com/gfd-recipe

Sign up for her FREE masterclass today: dranna.com/gfd-diabetes

-ABOUT DR. ANNA-

Dr. Anna Cabeca is an Emory University trained and board certified Gynecologist and Obstetrician. In addition, she is board certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and an expert in Functional Medicine and Women’s Health. She specializes in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and natural alternatives, successful menopause and age management medicine. Dr. Anna is the best-selling author of Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16, and MenuPause.

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Website: http://drannacabeca.com/

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Always seek the advice of your own physician or qualified health professional before starting any treatment or plans. Information found here and results are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional and are not intended as medical advice.