Publications by the members of the IAOM

/Publications by the members of the IAOM

A Sensory-Motor Approach To Feeding

By Robyn Merkel-Walsh, MA, CCC-SLP|

One of TalkTools’ most popular books, “A Sensory Motor Approach to Feeding” encompasses sensory processing and oral-motor skill development needed for safe, effective, nutritive feeding for all ages and ability levels. Lori Overland, MS, CCC-SLP, C/NDT, CLC & Robyn Merkel-Walsh, MA, CCC-SLP have put together their expertise and many years of experience in this practical, illustrated guide that is now a reference in the field of Feeding Therapy.

Functional Assessment and Remediation of TOTs

By Robyn Merkel-Walsh, MA, CCC-SLP|

Authors, Robyn Merkel-Walsh and Lori Overland, have developed a comprehensive, evidenced-based program -- the Merkel-Walsh & Overland TOTs Protocol -- to assist in the identification and functional implications of Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs) -- commonly referred to as "tongue tie" or ankyloglossia. This practical speech and feeding program includes a pre- and post-surgical treatment plan to avoid long-term issues, such as scarring and reattachment.

“Please Release Me” The Tethered Oral Tissue (TOT) Puzzle

By Pat Pine|

IAOM’s own Pat Pine, RDH, COM® provides us with a quick reference pocket guide full of easy to find information that is great to share with families and other team members. There are excellent photos, charts and case studies throughout. This handy guide provides information on stretches and details the various procedures to release TOTs. It answers any questions a family or patient or may have about TOTs.

Two Thumbs Up: Understanding and Treatment of Thumb Sucking

By Christine Stevens Mills|

Two Thumbs Up is an accumulation of Christine’s experiences and orofacial myology expertise comprised of forty years in private practice, eighteen years teaching at University of Detroit Mercy orthodontic department, and teaching COM® (Certified Orofacial Myologist®) Certification Track Courses.

Early Training has Lifetime Benefits

By Judith Dember Paige|

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy has been around for more than 100 years. It has recently begun to gain prominence in the dental and medical communities as another way of addressing mild to moderate sleep apnea and TMD muscle disorders.

Understanding the Orofacial Complex: Muscle Manual

By Kristie Gatto, MA, CCC-SLP, COM®|

Understanding the Orofacial Complex: Muscle Manual was written to familiarize the reader with the anatomy and physiology of the orofacial musculature. Professionals who work with clients exhibiting deficits of the orofacial complex require a clear [...]

Oral Rest Posture: A key piece of the obstructive sleep apnea puzzle

By Angie Lehman, RDH, COM®|

Dental professionals are missing the chance to address obstructive sleep apnea before it even begins.  In the past few years, the subject of the airway in relation to dentistry has been increasingly discussed. Obstructive sleep [...]

Why Can’t My Child’s Tongue Thrust be Treated at School?

By Dianne Fonssagrives, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®|

Parents often ask: "Why can't my child's tongue thrust be treated at school?" When parents discover that a tongue thrust is often treated by a Speech/Language Pathologist (SLP) they assume that the speech therapist at [...]

Otolaryngology: Open Access

By Robert M. Mason DMD, PhD & Honor Franklin Ph.D, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®|

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders and Otolaryngologists Robert M. Mason Emeritus Professor of Surgery, Previous Chief of Orthodontics, Duke University Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Durham, NC Honor Franklin Private Practice in Orofacial Myology and Speech-Language Pathology, [...]