Speech Therapy: A View from Orthodontics

Abstract

Introduction: The main objective of this research was to understand the perspective of orthodontists in the city of San José de Cúcuta on interdisciplinary work with speech therapists in the rehabilitation of orofacial motor skills through myofunctional therapy. Methods: The research was conducted through an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study targeting orthodontists in the city of San José de Cúcuta. The main measures were: work experience, consideration of speech therapy in interdisciplinary work, referrals, reasons for referral, and satisfaction level. Results: A sample of 25 orthodontists was obtained with a 100% response rate. 80% of these considered interdisciplinary work with speech therapists to be important, and 76% considered language to be the area responsible for patient rehabilitation. Regarding the number of referrals made to speech therapists, only 28% stated they always refer their patients. It was established that the most common causes of referrals include atypical swallowing, tongue thrusting, dyslalia, and language problems (60%). Thus, 80% of the population strongly agrees with working with a speech therapist, and 100% of those surveyed report that relapses are due to a lack of speech therapy support. Analysis: Orthodontists currently working in Cúcuta agree that interdisciplinary work with a speech therapist would facilitate the treatment of patients, primarily in the reintegration of oral functions. Conclusions: Although orthodontists perceive the importance of having a speech therapist in their patients' rehabilitation process, the diagnostic and therapeutic implications this professional can provide are unclear.