The temporomandibular joint, commonly called the TMJ, is the area where your jaw connects to your skull. With a TMJ disorder, you might have difficulty chewing, headaches, or pain in the jaw, ears or face. TMJ disorders limit jaw movement, force an uneven bite or even cause the jaw to lock and become immobile. Some exercises help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorders, and your doctor or dentist might prescribe medication to help cure the condition. Do not attempt to exercise your jaw without first consulting a medical professional.
Step 1
Open your mouth as wide as you can. Start slowly to avoid excessive pain, and gradually open it until it becomes too uncomfortable or cannot open further. Clamp your jaw shut slowly. Repeat this process up to 10 times in one sitting.
Step 2
Open your mouth slightly and place two fingers on your lower teeth. Relax your jaw and press down with your fingers, opening your mouth as far as is comfortable. Hold your jaw open while counting to 10. Close your mouth slowly and repeat the process several times.
Step 3
Use your jaw muscles to push your chin out, so that your lower teeth overlap your top teeth. Apply firm and even pressure to your chin with one hand to create resistance. Repeat this process in sets of 15, three times a day.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply a warm compress to each side of your face before stretching or exercising your jaw. If you experience muscle spasms, apply an ice pack.
- If you experience pain with any exercise, stop immediately. Do not attempt to exercise your jaw or the TMJ without asking your doctor first.
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