Orofacial myofunctional speech-language-hearing teletherapy program focusing on chewing and swallowing in temporomandibular disorders

ABSTRACT Purpose: to propose a myofunctional speech-language-hearing teletherapy program focusing on chewing and swallowing for individuals with temporomandibular disorder. Methods: the first stage included a scoping review, which found strategies that served as a basis for creating the program. In the second stage, a speech-language-hearing pathologist specializing in oral motor therapy applied the initial version of the therapeutic protocol to 29 patients diagnosed with temporomandibular muscle dysfunction, seeking to verify the instrument’s applicability. In the third stage, three speech-language-hearing pathologists specializing in oral motor therapy analyzed the protocol and suggested changes. Results: the version created from the scoping review was applied to 29 participants, making no adjustments in this stage. All format modifications suggested by the specialists were accepted, whereas content changes were accepted when at least two participating professionals agreed, who suggested minor changes. The final protocol version had 14 sessions - the first and last for assessments and the rest for therapy. Conclusion: the program was created, adjusted, and presented, aiming to assist and guide professionals in orofacial myofunctional speech-language-hearing teletherapy with this population. Further research is greatly important to validate this instrument.