While there is a great deal of research related to orofacial myology and the positive effects of myofunctional therapy, we continue to have a need for some basic research to be conducted. For example, what is the incidence and prevalence of orofacial myofunctional disorders among: the general population; the population of individuals with speech disorders by type and age; the population of patients with dental concerns by age and type?
There are many ways to collect this information. A retrospective record review which shows the clinical implications of services. A retrospective record review also provides information for clinical practice articles which include information on the services provided and the sequence of services. Orofacial Myologists who are working in a school system have access to a population that could provide the clinician with information on the percentage of the population of individuals who present with orofacial myofunctional disorders, who also have speech disorders, and the clinician could establish a percentage of a school-aged population that does not present with either orofacial myofunctional disorders or speech disorders.
Ethnographic information is also important. What are the differences in various international cultures for the sequence of development, the types of foods presented as children grow, and other cultural differences and preferences.
Evidence based practice patterns could also be established by clinicians in various working environments. As clinicians, we all know that what we do works, but we need to begin to place more of an emphasis on collecting and sharing the data.
With these needs in mind, the IAOM has initiated the process of establishing an Institutional Review Board (IRB). The primary purpose of the IRB is to ensure the safety of human subjects who participate as subjects in research projects. It is hoped that when the process of establishing an IRB is completed, our members will have an avenue they may use to have research projects reviewed. Establishing this group will take some time. Members will be notified when the IRB is ready to begin to receive proposals for review. We are hoping that this will be a useful member benefit.
This issue of IJOM has a variety of articles that expands our knowledge of the implications and potential consequences of orofacial myofunctional disorders for the population we serve. The IJOM Staff hopes that you enjoy this issue. If you have any feedback or suggestions for future topics that may be of interest to you, please feel free to contact me:
kptaylor2@verizon.net.
