What is IntraOral massage?

 Intraoral massage works on muscles inside and outside the mouth, as well as on the neck, throat and head. It is a very effective way to decrease symptoms of pain, joint clicking/popping/locking in the jaw and increase range of motion and circulation to the specific muscle tissues. Intraoral massage can feel a bit intense , both because the practitioners hand is inside of your mouth (gloved) and because likely the muscles will be very tender as they’re being relieved of pain. The results following this treatment are usually astounding.

A few common reasons you may consider this work:

TMJ pain: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. TMJ disorders cause pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control that movement. This pain can occur from jaw injury, arthritis, or grinding your teeth, and can result in clicking or popping noises. Intra-oral massage relieves pain from the tight jaw muscles.

Teeth grinding: Formally known as bruxism, this is a condition where you unconsciously grind, gnash, or clench your teeth, either during the day or at night. This grinding can be frequent and intense enough to lead to jaw disorders, headaches, and damaged teeth. Massage releases the muscles associated with chewing and jaw clenching.

Migraines: Some migraines are caused by pressure on a bone found in your skull called the sphenoid bone. It is also found in the upper reaches of your oral cavity. Massaging skull and jaw muscles can reduce pressure on the sphenoid bone and help relieve migraines.

Whiplash: The neck is usually the primary victim of whiplash, but it can also strain the muscles and soft tissues of the throat and jaw. In these cases, intra-oral massage can reduce stress placed on the jaw muscles and joints. 

Those who have experienced any dental trauma related to the jaw may also significantly benefit from this work.

*Luigi Continenza, LMT, is endorsed by the state of WA as an intraoral practitioner