Having an ideal oral rest posture is essential for overall health and well-being. Many people are unaware of what this looks like and can cause issues such as jaw pain, headaches, fatigue and even hearing problems.
Healthy oral rest posture should involve the lips slightly touching with the teeth not touching but having a natural freeway space of 2-3mm. The tip of the tongue should rest on the roof of the mouth right behind the front teeth, with the sides and back of the tongue touching the palate while breathing through the nose.
Quick notes on Health Resting Posture:
- Lips slightly touching
- Teeth not touching – 2-3mm apart
- Tip of the tongue resting behind front teeth
- Sides and back of the tongue touching inside palate (roof of mouth)
- Nasal breathing
Why is it important to have a healthy oral rest posture?
Having an ideal oral rest posture allows for good airflow for nasal breathing which is more efficient than mouth breathing. It also helps reduce wear and tear on the teeth and helps keep the jaw in a relaxed position which can help to prevent pain.
It is important to remember that this type of healthy rest posture should be practiced regularly throughout the day. If you have any concerns or need more information, it’s best to consult with your dentist or an OMT Specialist who will be able to provide advice and guidance on your specific posture.
Having the right kind of oral rest posture is key for overall health, well-being and comfort. Taking the time to practice a healthy resting position can make all the difference in your quality of life.
If you’d like more information on what good oral rest posture looks like, or if you believe that you or a loved one is affected by an improper oral rest posture, get in touch with our team at Cumberland OMT. We’ll be able to give you the guidance and OMT therapy you need to make sure that your oral rest posture is healthy and comfortable for years to come.