Stacy Lashenik

I have been a dental hygienist, since graduating with Highest Distinction from Indiana University Northwest in 2000.  As a dental hygienist, I have a passion for helping my patients achieve the greatest oral health possible. That is why I was drawn to orofacial myology.  I've learned that the basis of optimal oral health depends on correct function of the orofacial muscles.  Unfortunately, the relationship between muscle function and orofacial devlopment is not stressed in most dental hygiene or dental programs. so it took some time for me to discover it.  

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I was first introduced to orofacial myology after being told by an orthodontist that my own malocclusion was being caused by my "tongue thrust".  I had already had braces as a child and had permanent retainers on my teeth, but my teeth were still not aligned properly.  I never realized that it could be my tongue that was causing my open bite and cross bite.

After doing some research, I discovered orofacial myology. I became fascinated with the field and started to see signs of myofunctional disorders in my dental patients on a daily basis.  

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I quickly became frustrated with the fact that I could identify these disorders in my patients, but I didn't know how to help them.  In November 2016, I started my journey into orofacial myology by completing the IAOM level I and II courses with Kim Benkert, RDH, BSDH, MPH, COM.  I was fortunate to be trained by one of the leaders in the field, and I'm excited to bring this therapy to Northwest Indiana.  

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Memberships:

International Association of Orofacial Myology, IAOM

International Affiliation of Tongue -tie Professionals, IATP

International Association of Airway Hygienists, IAAH

American Laser Study Club

American Dental Hygienist's Association, ADHA

Indiana Dental Hygienist's Association, IDHA

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