Orthodontics

Jaw pain is a common symptom of temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which involves pain, discomfort, or dysfunction of the jaw. Several factors can contribute to TMD, including mouth breathing, teeth grinding, clenching, malocclusion, or a dysfunctional swallow pattern.

Mouth Breathing
Chronic mouth breathing can cause the lower jaw to rest incorrectly within the joint, leading to pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding facial muscles. Additionally, a low resting tongue fails to provide necessary support to the jaw, throwing the entire orofacial system out of balance.

Improper Occlusion
When the teeth don’t fit together properly (malocclusion), the jaw may move asymmetrically, leading to tension and discomfort in the TMJ muscles.

Clenching and Grinding
Teeth grinding and clenching are common responses to airway resistance, as the body attempts to open the airway during sleep. Over time, this can contribute to the development of TMD.

Tongue Thrust Swallow Pattern
A tongue thrust swallow pattern pushes the jaw forward, compressing the TMJ disc and potentially causing wear or displacement over time.

Approximately 80% of jaw pain is muscular, originating from the muscles responsible for moving the lower jaw. Thankfully, most TMD-related jaw pain can be managed with non-surgical treatments like orthodontics and myofunctional therapy.

Common Causes

How Myofunctional Therapy Can Help

Addressing TMD and jaw pain can be complex, often requiring a team approach. I collaborate closely with your doctor, dentist, orthodontist, and other professionals to uncover the root cause of your pain and develop a tailored treatment plan.

As a myofunctional therapist trained in Fast N Functional Therapy (FNFT), I use techniques designed to reduce muscle tension and recommend exercises that retrain the facial muscles and tongue to support proper jaw function. With FNFT, “motion is lotion,” and regular exercises play a crucial role in restoring pain-free, symmetrical jaw movement.

Additional Factors

Other contributors to jaw pain may include:

  • Genetics

  • Trauma

  • Bone degeneration

  • Chronic stress

  • Tongue tie

  • Arthritis

Begin Your Journey to a Healthier Jaw

If you’re experiencing jaw pain or discomfort, our myofunctional therapy could be the key to relieving your symptoms. At MyoMotion Therapy, we offer customized therapy programs designed to address the root causes of jaw pain, including temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Reach out to us for a free consultation and discover how we can help you achieve proper jaw function and long-lasting relief.