If you’re tired of waking up with jaw pain, popping sounds, or headaches, you’re not alone. TMJ pain can really put a damper on your day. But did you know your tongue and facial muscles might be part of the problem? Our Plano dentist shares how myofunctional therapy offers real relief from TMJ pain and how it could help you feel better fast.
Ankita J. Patel, DDS, is here to help you get relief from jaw pain with comprehensive treatments aimed at addressing the root problem, not just the symptoms. So, if you’re ready to get rid of jaw pain for good, call (972) 867-5989 to request a visit at Family Wellness Dentistry in Plano, TX, today!
Now, let’s follow along as our Plano dentist discusses what causes TMJ pain and how myofunctional therapy can help.
What Is TMJ and Why Does It Hurt?
TMJ is an abbreviation of the phrase “temporomandibular joint.” This hardworking joint fastens the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone of the skull. You use it to chew, talk, yawn, and even smile. When it’s not working right, it can cause pain in your jaw, neck, face, and shoulders. This pain is known as TMJ disorder (TMD), and around 34% of the global population suffers from this condition.
TMJ pain can come from stress, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or injury. But here’s something many people don’t know – bad habits involving the tongue, lips, and facial muscles can make it worse. That’s where myofunctional therapy comes in.
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is like physical therapy for your face. It’s a set of simple exercises that retrain your tongue, lips, cheeks, and jaw muscles to work properly. These exercises help improve breathing, chewing, speaking, and even posture.
Our Plano dentist can refer you to a myofunctional therapist who can create a custom plan just for you. With regular practice, these small exercises can lead to big improvements in how your jaw feels and functions.
How Myofunctional Therapy Eases TMJ Pain
So, how does myofunctional therapy help with TMJ pain? Great question! TMJ pain often comes from muscle imbalance. If your tongue pushes the wrong way or your jaw is always clenched, your muscles stay tense. That tension leads to pain.
Myofunctional therapy helps by relaxing overworked muscles and strengthening the weak ones. It retrains your tongue to rest in the right spot (on the roof of your mouth). It teaches your lips to stay closed and your jaw to stay relaxed. Over time, this reduces stress on your TMJ and eases pain naturally.
Signs You Might Need Myofunctional Therapy
Not sure if myofunctional therapy is right for you? Our Plano dentist can help you decide, but here are a few signs to look for:
- You often clench or grind your teeth.
- Your jaw pops, clicks, or locks.
- You breathe through your mouth instead of your nose.
- You have a tongue thrust or lisp when speaking.
- You get frequent headaches or jaw pain.
If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to try something new, and myofunctional therapy could be just what you need.
What a Myofunctional Therapy Session Looks Like
First, our Plano dentist will examine your bite, jaw, and facial muscles. You might be asked to stick out your tongue, say a few words, or swallow water. If Dr. Patel thinks you could benefit from myofunctional therapy, she may refer you to a specialist.
Then, you may get a personalized set of exercises to do at home. These might include:
- Tongue lifts
- Lip seal training
- Jaw relaxation drills
- Breathing through your nose
Most people do these exercises a few times a day for several weeks. The key is consistency. Small steps each day can lead to lasting relief.
Other Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy
Our Plano dentist will tell you that myofunctional therapy doesn’t just help TMJ pain – it comes with bonus benefits, too! For example:
- Better Sleep: Myofunctional therapy can reduce snoring and improve breathing.
- Improved Posture: Training your tongue and jaw helps align your neck and spine.
- Clearer Speech: Exercises can correct tongue thrusts and speech issues.
- Healthier Teeth: Less grinding and clenching means less wear and tear.
It’s a natural, drug-free way to support your overall oral and facial health.
Why Choose a Plano Dentist for Myofunctional Therapy?
Our Plano dentist understands the connection between oral health and whole-body wellness. That’s why many dental professionals now offer myofunctional therapy as part of a complete TMJ treatment plan.
Myofunctional experts also work closely with orthodontists, sleep specialists, and other physical therapists when needed. This team approach helps you get the best results.
So, if you’re looking for a Plano dentist who gets to the root of the problem, myofunctional therapy is a great place to start.
Myofunctional Therapy vs. Other TMJ Treatments
Many Plano dentists still use bite guards, medication, or Botox® to treat TMJ. But those options often treat the symptoms, not the cause.
Myofunctional therapy, on the other hand, targets the root issue – muscle dysfunction. By fixing poor habits (like mouth breathing or tongue thrusting), this therapy helps prevent the pain from coming back.
It’s not a quick fix, but it’s a lasting one. And it works well alongside other treatments if needed.
Tips for Success With Myofunctional Therapy
Want to get the most out of myofunctional therapy? Here are some quick tips from a Plano dentist:
- Be Consistent: Do your exercises every day.
- Stay Patient: You might not feel relief right away, but stick with it.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be shy – Dr. Patel is here to help!
- Track Your Progress: Celebrate small wins, like fewer headaches or better sleep.
- Avoid Triggers: Try not to chew gum, bite your nails, or clench your jaw.
With time, effort, and support, you’ll notice a big difference in how you feel.
Find Relief from TMJ Pain with a Trusted Plano Dentist
TMJ pain can be frustrating and exhausting, but you don’t have to live with it. Myofunctional therapy is a simple, safe, and effective way to retrain your muscles and reduce pain for good.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward feeling better, talk to our Plano dentist today. You can reach Family Wellness Dentistry here, or you can call us at (972) 867-5989 to discover if myofunctional therapy is right for you.