Myofunctional Therapy with TMJ Pain and Dysfunction

TMJ and Myofunctional Therapy

What is TMJ and TMD

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint is responsible for movement of the jaw specifically allowing the jaw to hinge open, close, and move side to side. Pain and discomfort in the TMJ region is known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD).

What causes TMD and TMJ Pain

TMD can be caused by a number of factors. For instance:

Arthritis
Clenching or grinding of the teeth
Postural structural issues
Tongue-tie
Improper chewing or swallowing pattern
Malocclusion
Sleeping on one side
Injury to the jaw
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder

As a result from the TMJ not able to hinge adequately TMD can develop in a range of severity in symptoms including:

TMJ Pain
Difficulty opening and closing the jaw
Limited jaw mobility
Limited jaw range of motion
Headaches
Ear aches
Difficulty speaking
Difficulty swallowing

Can muscle function impact the TMJ

Yes, abnormal movement patterns of the face, mouth and jaw are referred to as an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder (OMD) that may contribute to the development of TMD. Habits such as mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, clenching of the teeth and sucking or chewing habits can all put excessive stress on the TMJ. As a result of these habits, they can lead to temporomandibular dysfunction symptoms. Moreover, some signs and symptoms of an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder are:

Clenching and Grinding of the teeth
Forward head position
Limited tongue movement
Improper chewing or swallowing pattern
Malocclusion
Difficult to keep lips together

Can myofunctional Therapy be benefical for TMJ Pain

Yes, myofunctional therapy is a therapy used to help those with Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders. Additionally, it has been shown to be an effective therapy for TMD in several studies that are linked below. The results found by restoring proper oral function it reduced muscular tension. Additionally it improved jaw mobility, jaw range of motion and oral function. As a result, by restoring normal function of the jaw muscles, joints, and the soft tissues around the TMJ markedly it restored the ability to hinge in its proper position when opening and closing the jaw.

Why team based approaches achieve best outcomes

With all things considered, contributing factors of TMJ pain can be complex. In many cases it can require a skilled multi-disciplinary team approach that many myofunctional therapist, such as myself can aid in putting together. It’s a bit like a “traffic controller”, navigating clients to the specific healthcare professions they might need while restoring oral function. Many times it takes investigating and addressing the symptoms while restoring oral function for best long-term outcomes.

Myofunctional therapy is a comparatively safe, non-invasive option that is effective in reducing pain and improving jaw function. In addition to improve sleep quality and reduce headaches that can largely improve quality of life.

The Overview

In conclusion, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder can be the result of abnormal muscle function patterning of the face, mouth and jaw. With time, these abnormal habitual movements can cause stress on the Temporomandibular Joint resulting in pain and discomfort. Many times it can take a team to restore optimal function that are individual based. Having a Myofunctional Therapist on your team can help aid in getting to the root cause.

Resources

CM de Felício., BC Z Machado., et al. “Effects of oral motor exercises and laser therapy on chronic temporomandibular disorders: a randomized study with follow up,” Lasers in Medical Science. April 2016
CM de Felício., MO Melchior., et al. “Effects of orofacial myofunctional therapy on temporomandibular disorders,” Journal of Craniomandibular and Sleep Practice. Vol.28, Oct 2010
J Bartley., “Breathing and temporomandibular joint disease”. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. 2011 vol 15, pp. 291-297
G. Olivi., A.Signore., et al, “ Lingual Frenectomy: functional evaluation and new therapeutic approach”. European Journal of Paediatric Dentistry. 2-2012 vol 13 pp 101-106

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