Learn more about intraoral massage and the many ways it can release TMJ tensions.
Intraoral massage is a safe and effective manual technique that works on muscles both inside and outside the mouth, neck and throat. It is an effective treatment for patients who suffer from TMJ dysfunction, clenching, grinding, painful clicking jaw, excess jaw tension, migraines, chronic sinus problems, head injuries, whiplash, strains from orthodontia or dental surgery after effects, headaches, chronic ear congestion, tinnitus, emotional trauma and chronic face and neck pain.
Although this technique can be quite intense, it is not necessarily painful. Since it deals with muscles that are rarely touched, they respond to less pressure. It is extremely beneficial and even helps balance the upper body. Gloves are worn while working inside the mouth to release the muscles and fascia involved with chewing and jaw clenching.
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) is a disorder of the muscles of mastication and associated structures.
Signs and Symptoms:
TMJ noise (clicking, popping, or grinding)
Headaches
Postural dysfunctions, head forward posture
Limited opening
Ear congestion and pain
Swelling on the side of the face
Vertigo (dizziness)
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
Nausea
Loose teeth
Clenching/bruxism (grinding)
Facial pain
Fatigued facial muscles
Tender, sensitive teeth
Difficulty chewing
Cervical (neck) pain
Postural problems
Paresthesia of fingertips (tingling)
If either you have been diagnosed with TMJD or have pain in the jaw, by the ears, forehead, back of the head, neck and shoulders you will benefit greatly. Many patients have been successfully treated for TMJ syndrome using Intraoral Massage Therapy, by using these specific massage techniques to the face, head, neck, jaw and oral cavity.