Laael Johnson
Myofunctional Therapist
Symptoms
My journey into the field of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy started in 2018 during a continuing education course. During this course, they discussed many symptoms my patients have in common - chronic inflammation of the gums, gum disease, high cavity rates, dry mouth, crooked teeth, narrow palates, TMJ pain, headaches, poor sleep etc.
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Red Flags
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With the basic understanding of Myofunctional therapy, I started noticing more and more patients, especially children, including my own son, had many of the ‘red flags’ the course had referred to. So now, I was left with a problem and no understanding how to fix it or prevent it from happening in the first place. I knew there had to be a better way. After continued education in the Myofunctional therapy-airway space, I began treating children and adults.
Open Doors
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In 2019, I opened my private practice where I evaluate and treat root causes of mouth breathing, snoring, sleep apnea, poor sleep, over crowded teeth, tongue-tie and more. I work with a team of providers that include orthodontists, pediatric dentists, ENTs, lactation specialists, and oral surgeons. With this interdisciplinary team, my patients have successfully returned to eating, breathing, growing and sleeping better.
A Better Way
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Inspired by the success of my patients, I continue to educate pediatricians, dentists, and other medical providers, regarding the importance of correct nasal breathing, proper oral rest posture, chewing and sleeping. After all, my educational background as a dental hygienist is in preventative care, so why ‘wait and see’ what happens when most issues surrounding systemic and oral health problems can be prevented. I've found a better way.
Family Connection
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Where it all started.
I grew up, and currently live, in the heart of the Adirondacks of Northern New York! These mountains couldn't be more picture-perfect for all of the outdoor adventures my family and I like to take. We also have a gorgeous lake perfect for summer relaxation. I am less than an hour from Montreal, Canada, where my family and I often go to explore all the beautiful city has to offer.
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I met my husband at 16 years old and after both graduating from college, we returned home to continue our story. My husband started teaching at a local elementary school. I started my career as a dental hygienist and continue to work in a private general dentistry practice.
In 2015, we welcomed our first son, Madox. And in 2017, we welcomed our second son, Coen. As a family of four, we can often be found hiking and biking when the weather is nice. We try to escape on warm-weather vacations during the long, cold North Country winters, When I'm not pretending to be on a tropical vacation, we do manage to find joy in snowshoeing and sledding.