International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy

1 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Publisher’s Note: A New Chapter for the International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM)—Continued Publication by MDPI

by Clàudia Aunós

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2025, 51(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijom51010001 - 15 Jan 2025

Abstract

The International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM) has been an important part of the orofacial myology field since its establishment in 1975 [...] Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Proceedings of the 2024 IAOM Convention

by IAOM

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(1), 1-11; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.1.4 - 30 Oct 2024

Abstract

Orofacial Myology is an ever-evolving science that requires a sound understanding of the root causes of orofacial dysfunctions, the mechanism of physiological functions, the functional impacts of these dysfunctions, and how to individually assess and implement on a wide range of cases [...] [...] Read more.

Orofacial Myology is an ever-evolving science that requires a sound understanding of the root causes of orofacial dysfunctions, the mechanism of physiological functions, the functional impacts of these dysfunctions, and how to individually assess and implement on a wide range of cases [...] Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Feeding and Gastrointestinal Symptomatology: Comparing Infants Without Oral Restriction to Those with Treated and Untreated Tethered Oral Tissues

by Rebecca R. Hill

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(2), 1-11; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.2.5 - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Objectives: The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate if there were any significant differences in gastrointestinal (GI) and/or feeding symptoms for infants with tethered oral tissues (TOTs) pre-frenotomy compared to infants with untreated TOTs and infants without TOTs, and (2) evaluate [...] Read more.

Objectives: The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate if there were any significant differences in gastrointestinal (GI) and/or feeding symptoms for infants with tethered oral tissues (TOTs) pre-frenotomy compared to infants with untreated TOTs and infants without TOTs, and (2) evaluate if treatment via frenotomy led to improvements in symptoms that more closely align with GI and/or feeding symptoms in infants with untreated TOTs and/or infants without (TOTs). Methods: This study utilized a pretest-only control group design. The Infant Eating Assessment Tool (InfantEAT) and Gastrointestinal and Gastroesophageal Reflux (GIGER) Scale were used to evaluate infant feeding and GI symptoms, respectively. Multiple linear regression was used to compare scores between the three groups at baseline, controlling for age and gestational age at birth. Treatment group’s average score after intervention was compared to the mean baseline score of the other two groups. For the treatment group, paired t-test was used to evaluate changes in scores before and after the treatment. Results: All subscales of both the InfantEAT and GIGER demonstrated statistically significant differences for infants with TOTs before intervention when compared with infants with TOTs who did not undergo treatment and infants without TOTs. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the importance of considering structure along with function for infants with tongue- and/or lip-tie. Clinicians must evaluate maternal symptoms alongside infant factors. The decision to treat TOTs via frenotomy is multifactorial and is not necessary in every mother-infant dyad. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Global Perspectives on Tongue-Tie Assessment of One to Ten Year-Old Children in Speech-Language Pathology

by Sharon Smart, Zoe Whitfield and Mary Claessen

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(2), 1-17; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.2.4 - 30 Sep 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are essential in evaluating tongue structure and function. Due to limited psychometrically validated assessment tools, evidence-based practitioners often rely on clinical expertise to inform their assessment and clinical decision-making. This study aimed to explore how SLPs assess tongue structure [...] Read more.

Purpose: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are essential in evaluating tongue structure and function. Due to limited psychometrically validated assessment tools, evidence-based practitioners often rely on clinical expertise to inform their assessment and clinical decision-making. This study aimed to explore how SLPs assess tongue structure and function in children aged 1 to 10 years suspected of having a tongue-tie by examining global practice patterns. Methods: A total of 194 practicing, English-speaking SLPs participated in a global online survey. The survey gathered information on participant demographics, classification tools used, and methods for assessing tongue structure and function, oral motor function and speech production in children with suspected tongue-tie. Results: Participants reported using various measures, including case history, oral examination, and clinical assessment. These measures encompassed evaluation of tongue structure, oral motor tasks and functional measures, including observation of speech, feeding, and swallowing. Notably, 40% of participants indicated they did not use any published assessment tool. While over 90% of participants evaluated feeding skills through parent questionnaires, only 55% observed feeding during mealtimes. Additionally, SLPs in the United States reported using different classification tools for tongue-tie compared to their counterparts in Australia, the United Kingdom and other countries. Conclusion: There is a global trend of limited use of published tongue-tie assessment tools in clinical practice. Most clinicians rely on various measures to evaluate tongue structure and function in children with suspected tongue-tie. These findings highlight the need for a specialized assessment tool that is designed and validated for evaluating tongue structure and function in children beyond infancy. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Tongue Strength and Swallowing-Related Masseter Activity and Oropharyngeal Timing Across the Lifespan

by Alicia Martin-Cowger, Dianna Evers, Christy Osterhout, Katie Small, Shelly Ashbocker, Eric Astel, Rebecca Burke, Natalie Dahl, Rebecca Fish, Jeanette Fountain, Sandra Frickey, Elizabeth Holbrook, Carmen Ives, Cassie Dallaserra, Leigha Juravich, Savannah Leckington, Ashley Purser, Heather Randolph, Catherine Reed, David Ross, Kristine Sedlezky, Chad Seibold, Erin Sholes, Amanda Sisneros, Blake Tanner, Casey Ulrich, Joni Grey Loftin and Anthony Seikel Show full author list Hide full author list

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(1), 1-36; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.1.3 - 28 Aug 2024

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined lifespan changes in maximum tongue strength, swallowing time, and masseter activity during swallowing. It provides normative data with which to compare clinical assessments of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) and oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD). Method: 409 healthy participants without identified OMD [...] Read more.

Purpose: This study examined lifespan changes in maximum tongue strength, swallowing time, and masseter activity during swallowing. It provides normative data with which to compare clinical assessments of orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) and oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD). Method: 409 healthy participants without identified OMD or OPD (ages 5–79 years) provided instrumental measures of tongue strength and electromyographic measurements for oropharyngeal transit time and masseter activity during swallows of four boluses. Participants were placed in three broad age groups (5–15, 16–59, 60–79) for cross-sectional analysis. Results: Differences were found between age groups for tongue strength, such that the youngest group had significantly lower anterior tongue strength than the other groups, and lower posterior tongue strength than the 16–59 age group. Anterior tongue strength was significantly greater for males than females; posterior tongue strength did not differ significantly between the sexes. The youngest group had longer oropharyngeal transit times than either of the two older groups for most boluses. Swallowing transit time decreased in duration across the age groups, from youngest to oldest, for the 2.5 cc pudding bolus. Both right and left masseters differed in activation among tasks and age groups. The oldest age group had consistently greater levels of activation of the right masseter, and all groups had greater activation for the cracker bolus. Spearman rank-order correlations largely confirmed the inferential statistics and provided evidence of a relationship between tongue weakness and increased oropharyngeal transit time. Conclusion: Maximum tongue pressure generation and oropharyngeal timing measures support a developmental hypothesis, with lower tongue strength and longer swallowing transit times for children ages 5 through 15. The smaller pudding bolus provided the greatest differentiation among the age groups, which may prove to be a functional indicator for clinical evaluation. These results are largely consistent with existing data for tongue strength and oropharyngeal swallowing transit times. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

International Consortium of Oral Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP) Practice Guidelines for Ankylofrenula Management

by Sharon Smart, Andrea Kittrell, Robyn Merkel-Walsh and Raymond J. Tseng

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(2), 1-11; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.2.3 - 27 Aug 2024

Abstract

This document contains Practice Guidelines developed by the International Consortium of oral Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP) Consensus Committee and accepted by the Board of Directors to delineate the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals involved in caring for individuals with ankylofrenula. These Practice Guidelines [...] Read more.

This document contains Practice Guidelines developed by the International Consortium of oral Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP) Consensus Committee and accepted by the Board of Directors to delineate the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals involved in caring for individuals with ankylofrenula. These Practice Guidelines apply to practitioners serving individuals across all age groups, from infants to adults. It aims to standardize healthcare practices concerning ankylofrenula definition, diagnosis, assessment, and management. The purpose of these Practice Guidelines is twofold: firstly, to communicate ICAP’s stance on the standardization of healthcare practices for health professionals engaging with patients and families affected by ankylofrenula. Secondly, it serves as an educational resource and advocacy tool for ICAP in interactions with external stakeholders, such as multidisciplinary team members, healthcare management, government bodies, researchers, funding agencies, patients, caregivers, and their families. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Clinical Perspectives on Post-Operative Care for Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs)

by Robyn Merkel-Walsh and Lori L. Overland

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(2), 1-13; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.2.2 - 6 Jul 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Post-operative frenectomy care is often focused on active wound management (AWM) and followed by neuromuscular re-education (NMR). The standard practices of AWM are varied amongst providers. AWM is often expected to be performed by caregivers who have little to no experience with [...] Read more.

Introduction: Post-operative frenectomy care is often focused on active wound management (AWM) and followed by neuromuscular re-education (NMR). The standard practices of AWM are varied amongst providers. AWM is often expected to be performed by caregivers who have little to no experience with AWM. In contrast, NMR is individualized to patient needs and has been emerging in external evidence as a beneficial modality for the functional implications of tethered oral tissues (TOTs). It is guided by licensed professionals but is not often accessible or recommended. New Perspective: AWM and NMR often are similar in execution but differ in goals. AWM is focused on wound debridement and avoiding scarring or reattachment of the frena, whereas NMR is focused on airway, sleep, feeding, swallowing, speech, and optimal orofacial growth. AWM has little consensus or external evidence compared to NMR which has both internal and external evidence. AWM for oral care is also limited by scope of practice (SOP) which few licensed professionals have. NMR has a broader range of professionals such as International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), physical and occupational therapists (PT/OT) and registered dental hygienists (RDHs). Conclusions: NMR has multiple benefits post-operatively, is individualized and performed by multiple professionals. It is suggested that release providers consider gentle, functionally directed post-operative NMR techniques that are individualized, and research the impact these approaches have on wound care goals. Full article

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Open AccessCase Report

A Myofunctional Chewing Device as an Early Intervention Tool for a Child with Achondroplasia and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

by Donny Mandrawa, Mary Bourke and Ignatius Bourke

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(1), 1-8; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.1.2 - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Background: Achondroplasia is a genetic condition that results in several orofacial and physical manifestations that predispose patients to dental, breathing, and sleep issues. Case Description: This report details the case of a 2-year-old girl with achondroplasia, malocclusion, speech and breathing dysfunction, and obstructive [...] Read more.

Background: Achondroplasia is a genetic condition that results in several orofacial and physical manifestations that predispose patients to dental, breathing, and sleep issues. Case Description: This report details the case of a 2-year-old girl with achondroplasia, malocclusion, speech and breathing dysfunction, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Treatment involved using a myofunctional device that required chewing twice per day, two simple tongue exercises, speech-language therapy, chiropractic therapy, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for 24 months. Throughout the treatment period, the patient demonstrated significant improvements in her sleep, breathing, dental occlusion, speech, and overall confidence. Conclusion: This case report highlights how pediatric patients with achondroplasia can improve their OSA symptoms and health with conservative myofunctional therapy interventions.
Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Proceedings of the 2024 ICAP Convention

by International Association of Orofacial Myology

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(2), 1-15; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.2.1 - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

Objective analysis of tongue movements during feeding helps differentiate patterns typical of ankyloglossia versus musculoskeletal or neurological conditions [...] Full article

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Open AccessProtocol

Barriers and Facilitators for Dental Practitioners in Implementing Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy: A Scoping Review Protocol

by Heuiwon Han and Mina Jawadi

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2024, 50(1), 1-9; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2024.50.1.1 - 25 Jan 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) addresses various dental issues and has evolved significantly since its emergence in the early 20th century. Despite its uses and effectiveness, the adoption of OMT among dental practitioners varies with a lack of comprehensive understanding in the field. [...] Read more.

Purpose: Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) addresses various dental issues and has evolved significantly since its emergence in the early 20th century. Despite its uses and effectiveness, the adoption of OMT among dental practitioners varies with a lack of comprehensive understanding in the field. This scoping review will aim to map the current evidence on OMT in dentistry, with a focus on the perspectives and attitudes of dental practitioners, as well as the barriers to and facilitators of its implementation in clinical practice. Method: The planned scoping review adheres to the JBI methodology for scoping reviews guide, with data sourced from five databases, including MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Dentistry & Oral Science Source, and Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria encompass dental practitioners' experiences with OMT, using the PCC mnemonic. Titles and abstracts will be screened by two independent reviewers, followed by full-texts, to identify relevant primary sources. The review will include primary studies of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods nature, and is limited to English-language publications. Data will be extracted by two independent reviewers and combined. The extracted data will be analyzed and displayed in a tabulated format, supplemented with a descriptive summary. Conclusion: This scoping review will provide an understanding of the role of OMT in managing orofacial myofunctional disorders and other dental conditions. It seeks to identify barriers and facilitators in implementing OMT, aiming to guide strategies that encourage its adoption in dental practice. The findings are expected to contribute to integrating OMT into standard dental care as appropriate according to local regulations, enhancing the management of dental conditions and improving overall oral health outcomes. Full article

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Open AccessEditorial

How to Know If a Journal is Legitimate

by Nancy Pearl Solomon

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2023, 49(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2023.49.1.3 - 31 Dec 2023

Abstract

In these times of quickly proliferating journals with potentially unscrupulous publishing practices, it is more important than ever to be confident that the journals you rely on for scholarly content and for your own publication needs are legitimate. We are proud to report [...] Read more.

In these times of quickly proliferating journals with potentially unscrupulous publishing practices, it is more important than ever to be confident that the journals you rely on for scholarly content and for your own publication needs are legitimate. We are proud to report that the IJOM was thoroughly reviewed by the Committee on Publication Ethics and has been accepted for membership, verifying that the journal maintains a commitment to research and a high level of publication integrity. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Proceedings of the 2023 IAOM Convention

by International Association of Orofacial Myology

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2023, 49(1), 1-17; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2023.49.1.4 - 31 Oct 2023

Abstract

Deciduous malocclusion (DM), defined by poorly developing jaws and misaligned teeth in preschool-age children (under the age of 6 years) is a highly prevalent public health problem within industrialized societies [...] Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Use of a Myofunctional Device in an Aged Care Population for Oral Care and Swallowing: A Feasibility Study

by Hollie-Ann L. Shortland, Gwendalyn Webb, Anne E. Vertigan and Sally Hewat

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2023, 49(1), 1-13; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2023.49.1.2 - 8 Jun 2023

Abstract

Purpose: Poor oral health is a known predictor of aspiration pneumonia in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and chronically ill. This study examined the feasibility of using myofunctional devices during a 5-week intervention for the management of oral care and dysphagia for [...] Read more.

Purpose: Poor oral health is a known predictor of aspiration pneumonia in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and chronically ill. This study examined the feasibility of using myofunctional devices during a 5-week intervention for the management of oral care and dysphagia for residents in a residential aged-care facility. Method: Feasibility was determined through evaluation of study recruitment and retention rates, adherence to intervention, and resident and staff acceptability of the intervention. Thirteen residents, ages 74–99, participated in the intervention and 10 care staff completed feedback on post-intervention questionnaires. Results: Enrolment and retention rates were 61.9% and 92.3%, respectively. Adherence rates for use of the device were 92.6% at 3 weeks, and 89.3% at 5 weeks for the 12 participants who completed the protocol. The device was considered acceptable for ease of use, comfort, and amount of support required. Conclusion: Results indicate that further research exploring device use in an aged care population for the management of dysphagia and oral hygiene is feasible. Full article

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Open AccessCase Report

Muscle Tension Dysphonia in Singers and Professional Speakers with Ankyloglossia: Impact of Treatment with Lingual Frenuloplasty and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

by Isabella Summersgill, Gloria Nguyen, Cullen Grey, Leyli Norouz-Knutsen, Robyn Merkel-Walsh, Christine Katzenmeir, Benjamin Rafii and Soroush Zaghi

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2023, 49(1), 1-8; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2023.49.1.1 - 30 Mar 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) describes a condition affecting the feeling or quality of the voice due to increased muscle tension in and/or around the neck and larynx. Ankyloglossia is a condition of restricted tongue mobility that has been shown to be associated [...] Read more.

Introduction: Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) describes a condition affecting the feeling or quality of the voice due to increased muscle tension in and/or around the neck and larynx. Ankyloglossia is a condition of restricted tongue mobility that has been shown to be associated with increased muscle tension. This case series explores outcomes for voice users with MTD who have been treated for ankyloglossia. Methods: Twelve professional or recreational voice users diagnosed with ankyloglossia were surveyed on their symptoms of MTD before and after treatment with lingual frenuloplasty and pre- and post-operative orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), a multidisciplinary approach known as functional frenuloplasty. Two investigators independently compiled a list of themes reported by participants and agreed upon common themes. Results: Eleven out of twelve patients (91.6%) reported clinical improvement in the use of their voice after functional frenuloplasty; one patient reported no change. Five primary themes were noted: improved voice quality, improved ease of singing and/or speaking, increased stamina, increased pitch range, and improved breath support. Discussion: OMT with lingual frenuloplasty can be an effective adjunctive intervention for treatment of symptoms of vocal tension and fatigue for singers and professional speakers with ankyloglossia. These findings suggest a possible association between MTD and restricted tongue mobility presumably due to underlying myofascial tension. Full article

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Open AccessReview

What Are We Missing in Adult Obstructive Sleep Apnea Clinical Evaluation? Review of Official Guidelines

by Eduardo J. Correa, Carlos O'Connor-Reina, Laura Rodriguez-Alcalá, Diego M. Conti, Alberto Rabino, Peter M. Baptista, Maria-Teresa Garcia-Iriarte and Guillermo Plaza

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2023, 49(2), 1-10; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2023.49.2.1 - 1 Jan 2023

Abstract

Purpose: This article presents a narrative review of current recommendations for the clinical evaluation and management of adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to identify points missing from a myofunctional perspective. Methods: The authors reviewed current official guidelines for adult patients with [...] Read more.

Purpose: This article presents a narrative review of current recommendations for the clinical evaluation and management of adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to identify points missing from a myofunctional perspective. Methods: The authors reviewed current official guidelines for adult patients with OSA, searching clinical evaluation and treatment recommendations for myofunctional therapy. Results: None of the current guidelines for evaluation of adult OSA recommend performing a myofunctional evaluation. Only two guidelines consider myofunctional therapy (MFT) as a treatment modality for adult patients with OSA. Conclusion: Despite the role of the pharyngeal dilator muscles as an essential contributor to the pathogenesis of OSA, this review has shown that myofunctional assessment is still not a standard recommendation in current guidelines for adult OSA. Recent guidelines occasionally include MFT as a therapeutic tool for OSA. To strengthen the knowledge base and evidence for including MFT treatment for adult patients with OSA, the authors encourage physicians to incorporate myofunctional evaluation into their regular clinical practice. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Advances and Updates on Open-Access Publishing by the IJOM

by Nancy Pearl Solomon

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2022, 48(1), 1-3; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2022.48.1.7 - 31 Dec 2022

Abstract

An online, open-access, no-fee model of the International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM) was established in December 2020 and includes all archived articles back to the journal’s origin in 1975. While aiming to increase content for the journal, the Editorial [...] Read more.

An online, open-access, no-fee model of the International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM) was established in December 2020 and includes all archived articles back to the journal’s origin in 1975. While aiming to increase content for the journal, the Editorial Review Board (ERB) has also been diligent about maintaining high standards for publication. This note From the Editor highlights recent publications, conference proceedings, and special issues. It also lists updates and challenges in terms of policies and practices. The IJOM remains both a traditional association-supported journal and is on the cutting edge of open-access publishing. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Proceedings of the 2022 IAOM Convention

by International Association of Orofacial Myology

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2022, 48(1), 1-15; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2022.48.1.5 - 22 Nov 2022

Abstract

This course reviews new research on the ‘fascial system’ and its relevance to physical development and contemporary therapy [...] Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Proceedings of the 2022 ICAP Conference

by International Consortium of Oral Ankylofrenula Professionals

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2022, 48(1), 1-13; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2022.48.1.6 - 1 Sep 2022

Abstract

This presentation will open the conference by highlighting the history of ICAP and how, by its very nature [...] Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Virtual Baby: 3D Model of the Anatomy and Physiology of Sucking and Swallowing in Infants as an Educational Tool

by Flávia Rebelo Puccini, Marina Gatti, Antônio de Castro Rodrigues, Silmara Rondon-Melo, Chao Lung Wen, Roberta Lopes de Castro Martinelli and Giédre Berretin-Felix

Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2022, 48(1), 1-11; https://doi.org/10.52010/ijom.2022.48.1.4 (registering DOI) - 15 Jul 2022

Abstract

Objective: This project aimed to develop and update a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) graphic video learning object demonstrating a current knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of sucking and swallowing in newborns during breastfeeding. Method: To build and update the 3D computer [...] Read more.

Objective: This project aimed to develop and update a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) graphic video learning object demonstrating a current knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of sucking and swallowing in newborns during breastfeeding. Method: To build and update the 3D computer graphics iconographies of the “Virtual Baby”, we defined objectives for the learning object, created a literature review-based script, and organized a guide for structural (static) and functional (dynamic) graphical modeling for the designer. Results: Using 3D computer graphics, we produced a video with static images (anatomical structural) and dynamic sequences (most significant physiological and functional aspects and application of transparency to visualize the anatomical correlations between both). The video showed the anatomy and physiology of sucking and swallowing during breastfeeding. Its updates reflected additional scientific evidence as studies were published. Conclusion: Creation of the Virtual Baby provides a learning tool for visualizing the anatomy and physiology of sucking and swallowing in full-term newborns. The tool addresses the significant morphofunctional aspects of the breastfeeding process, supported by scientific literature, and can be used for student or professional training and in primary health care. Full article

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