Dealing with facial pain or hearing clicking sounds while you chew can indicate the presence of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), an issue affecting the jaw joint that causes discomfort and functional challenges.
Thanks to modern dental advancements, various treatment options are available to address TMD, including myofunctional therapy. If you’d like to learn more about this, including how it works and the difference it can make to your oral and general health, don’t be afraid to reach out to a dentist near you.
Possible Causes of TMJ
The temporomandibular joint plays a significant role when we speak, bite and chew, and move our jaw. When it’s damaged, it can be painful, causing daily activities to become uncomfortable and difficult. Some triggers that can give rise to TMD include:
- Teeth Grinding and Clenching: Known as bruxism, this often arises due to stress, leading to jaw and muscle strain, especially when it continues over a long period of time.
- Malocclusion: This is defined by misalignment of the jaw and therefore, teeth.
- Oromaxillofacial Injuries: Trauma or sports accidents can cause damage to the jaw.
- Arthritis: Mainly in the jaw.
Knowing these elements is the move toward therapy.
What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy near you is a modern way of dealing with TMJ issues. It incorporates specific exercises and techniques that can help improve the function of the mouth and surrounding facial muscles. Be sure to schedule a consultation with a dentist to learn more about this. They can assess your symptoms and needs and let you know if you’re a good candidate.
How Myofunctional Therapy Addresses Jaw Pain
The different facets of myofunctional therapy for the TMJ are broken down in detail below:
Helping to Control Oral Habits
Oral habits such as mouth breathing, thrusting the tongue, and improper swallowing can contribute to muscle strain. Myofunctional therapy can help address this in the following manner:
- Encouraging Nasal Breathing: Correct tongue placement is promoted and jaw tension is relieved.
- Training Proper Swallowing Techniques: This avoids any unnecessary strain on the jaw.
Improving Tongue Posture
A low or forward positioning of the tongue is a cause of muscle tension and misalignment. Therapy includes exercises to:
- Encourage Resting the Tongue Against the Palate: This helps to maintain proper jaw positioning and decreases strain.
Improving Orofacial Muscles
Weak orofacial muscles can cause imbalances in the TMJ. Therapy can help:
- Improve Muscle Coordination: It helps in maintaining the proper distribution of the workload among the facial muscles.
- Reduces Overcompensation by Jaw Muscles: Reduces pain and discomfort.
Improper Jaw Alignment
A proper way of refining the jaw and its function is realign it, which allows you to avoid pain and other dental and general wellness complications. Myofunctional therapy is practiced alongside orthodontic treatments to correct such problems:
- Improves the Efficacy of Orthodontic Interventions: Leads to better jaw alignment and pain relief.
Combating Bruxism
Bruxism is one of the most common causes of TMD, and myofunctional therapy targets the muscle tension and habits that lead to bruxism:
- Teaching Relaxation Techniques: Reduces the incidence and intensity of teeth grinding.
- Promoting Proper Muscle Function: Reduces associated jaw pain.
What to Expect from Myofunctional Therapy Sessions
A myofunctional therapy program is designed to be specific to you and your requirements. Here’s what you can expect:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Assessment of your orofacial muscles, jaw alignment, and oral habits.
- Customized Exercise Regimen: A set of exercises which are meant to help you with your specific problems only.
- Ongoing Support and Monitoring: Sessions are scheduled frequently to assess the development and necessary changes if any.
It is very important not to skip the sessions. If you follow the exercises and recommendations that are given, then the symptoms of TMJ can greatly improve.
A Step Towards Relief
If you or a loved one are experiencing TMJ pain, then you may wish to explore the benefits provided by myofunctional therapy in Fairview. For high-quality and reliable relief, contact Fairview Dental Clinic. We are passionate about aiding patients on their oral health journeys; no matter what you require, we are ready to jump into action.
Remember, speaking with a dental professional is the first step towards proper support and acquiring a customized treatment plan that suits your lifestyle. It is possible to lead a life without pain – contact us today!
