Atypical swallowing treatment with myofunctional devices

The study, conducted on 420 patients at the Orthodontics division of the U.O.C. of Odontostomatology at Fatebenefratelli San Pietro Hospital in Rome, analyzes the physiological mechanisms of swallowing and evaluates the clinical effectiveness of Froggy Mouth. Froggy Mouth is a removable device made of thermoplastic elastomer, available in three sizes and used to stimulate neural circuits for 15 minutes a day during playful activities. The results show significant improvements in tongue posture and spontaneous resolution of dental malocclusions. Patients, particularly those in the physiological developmental age, achieved predictable and lasting results with minimal commitment. Supporting this are studies by Eric Kandel (Nobel Prize winner in 2000) on the physiological bases of memory and learning, which suggest that involuntary and consistent learning can lead to permanent structural changes in neural circuits. This approach is also confirmed by Dr. Patrick Fellus, the device's creator, who emphasizes the importance of stimulating the posterior part of the tongue. Therefore, Froggy Mouth has proven to be an effective device for correcting atypical swallowing with significant and lasting improvements. However, further studies are needed to confirm these results and explore the mechanisms of action. Multidisciplinary collaboration remains crucial in addressing this complex problem.