If you hear a clicking in your jaw when you chew, find it difficult to open your mouth and chew, or experience misalignment of your jaw because of an injury, exercise may help. Talk to your dentist about any problems you have with your jaws. If you've been diagnosed with any deviation problem or bruxism, you can reduce pain and help improve your condition through exercise therapy.
Definition
Your jaw, also called the mandible, gives your face structure and a foundation for tooth growth and development. Bruxism is a medical term used to describe grinding of the teeth. Bruxism is more common in children than adults, though adults experiencing chronic stress may grind their teeth or clench their jaw without realizing it. If left untreated, bruxism may eventually lead to other symptoms and conditions including headaches, pain or temporomandibular joint disorders. Chronic grinding of the teeth may also damage your teeth and lead to jaw or tooth misalignment. Splints, teeth protectors and clenching appliances are often recommended, although not as commonly today as jaw therapy and exercise.
Resistance Opening Exercise
Strengthen your jaw and help relieve symptoms of mandibular misalignment with a resistance opening exercise. Follow your dentist's instructions for proper form, duration and repetitions. Perform the exercise while standing in front of a mirror so you can watch your jaw movement during the exercise. Place the palm of one hand under your chin and slowly open your mouth, gently resisting the movement with pressure from your hand.
Centering Exercise
Stand in front of a mirror to observe your jaw and tooth alignment with a centering exercise. Clench your teeth gently together in a normal biting position, pulling your lips back so that you can see your tooth alignment. Also known as a midline exercise, you'll want to keep your bottom front two teeth aligned below your upper front two teeth as you open and close your mouth. This exercise will help you feel and see correct alignment of your jaw.
Lower Jaw Range of Motion
Increase your jaw range of motion and decrease stiffness and pain by performing isolated lower jaw movements. Open your teeth slightly and then move only your lower jaw to the left as far as you can. Keep your lower jaw parallel to the floor. Switch and move your lower jaw to the right as far as you can without discomfort. Repeat 10 times on each side or as directed by your dentist.
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