Karen Mills
retired
Educated in Dental Hygiene
Was a Certified Orofacial Myologist
Saskatchewan Dental Therapist
I began my career in dentistry as a Dental Therapist in Saskatchewan. As a Dental Therapist I worked with a Dental Assistant in public schools
providing dental care to children aged 4 to 18. Services included x-rays, exams, fillings, extractions of baby teeth, space maintainers, crowns, oral hygiene instruction and cleanings.
In 1990, with a one year old in tow, I expanded my education to include Dental Hygiene. In 1999 I moved with my
two children to Calgary. I am so proud to be a Calgarian and to have had this opportunity to offer my years of experience and passion for dental health to all. I discovered many of the techniques I had been sharing with my hygiene patients, fell under the heading Orofacial Myology. I am thrilled to have been able to offer this therapy the results have been incredible. It has been a wonderful opportunity to share my journey and experiences with you.
My passions, of course, include my amazing children, Jesse and Kaylee; their lives are an inspiration to me.
I am also a singer songwriter, which is great fun. I perform at local coffee shops and various other venues. I proudly released my first original CD about 7 years ago. You can learn and hear more about my music passion at karenmills.ca
OROFACIAL MYOLOGY
Orofacial Myology is the study of muscle function, of the face, neck and mouth. An Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist, can provide exercises for training and proper placement, of the tongue, lips, cheeks, swallowing patterns, and proper breathing techniques.
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are disorders of the muscles and functions of the face and mouth. OMDs may affect, directly and/or indirectly, breastfeeding, facial skeletal growth and development, chewing, swallowing, speech, teeth placement, temporomandibular joint movement, TMJ pain, oral hygiene, stability of orthodontic treatment, facial aesthetics, difficulties in digesting food, reflux/Gerd, airway obstruction, allergy-like symptoms, ADHD and many other health issues.
Research has shown, the myofunctional therapy may reduce the symptoms of sleep disorders, such as snoring, and mild to moderate OSA (obstructive sleep apnea)
.