An intraoral jaw muscle massage is a technique you can use to relieve jaw tension by massaging the muscles inside your mouth.
This type of massage offers a number of benefits:
- Reduced jaw pain
- Less jaw stiffness
- Improved range of motion in the jaw
- Fewer headaches
- Reduced temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms
This article provides detailed instructions on how to safely and effectively massage your jaw muscles from inside your mouth. Keep reading to learn more about how to massage jaw muscles inside mouth.
Understanding jaw muscles and TMJ
Before you start massaging, it helps to know a little about the muscles involved and why they might be giving you trouble.
Key jaw muscles involved
- Masseter: This is the main muscle you use for chewing. You can feel it flex if you clench your jaw. It has external and internal portions.
- Temporalis: This muscle is on the side of your head, near your temples. It helps with chewing and moving your jaw from side to side.
- Medial Pterygoid: This muscle helps you elevate and protrude your jaw, and it also assists with side-to-side movements.
- Lateral Pterygoid: This muscle helps you depress and protrude your jaw, and it also assists with side-to-side movements.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction
TMJ dysfunction is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include:
- pain
- clicking
- locking of the jaw
Tight jaw muscles can put stress on the TMJ, which leads to pain and discomfort.
Getting ready for an intraoral massage
Like any massage, you’ll want to make sure you’re in a comfortable, relaxing environment, and be aware of potential body massage disadvantages. Dim the lights, turn off your phone, and close the door to create a calming environment, similar to those used for anger relief techniques.
Because you’re putting your hands in your mouth, hygiene is super important. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before you start. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer for extra protection.
You’ll also want to use a lubricant to reduce friction and make the massage more comfortable. Coconut oil is a great option because it’s food-grade and has a pleasant taste. You can also use another food-grade oil if you prefer. Just use a small amount, so your fingers don’t slip too much.
By following these simple steps, you can minimize your risk of infection and make your massage experience more enjoyable.
Intraoral massage techniques: Masseter muscle
The masseter muscle is one of the major muscles involved in chewing. It’s located on the side of your face, connecting your cheekbone to your lower jaw. Massaging it from inside your mouth can help relieve tension and pain.
Locating the masseter muscle inside the mouth
To find your masseter muscle, clench your teeth. Place your fingers along your cheek. You should feel the muscle bulge out as you clench. This is your masseter muscle.
Massage technique
Use your index finger or thumb to massage the inside of your mouth. Start with gentle pressure, and then increase it as you can tolerate it.
Work along the entire length of the muscle, covering both the superficial (outer) and deep (inner) portions.
As you massage, you may find some tender spots, also known as trigger points, similar to those used in acupuncture. If you do, apply steady pressure to these spots.
Aim to massage for 1 to 2 minutes on each side of your face, and try to do this several times a day.
Common sensations and what they mean
Here are some sensations you might experience during the massage, and what those sensations could mean:
- Tenderness: This indicates muscle tension.
- Referral pain: You might feel pain in other areas, such as headaches or toothaches.
- Release: This is when the muscle softens and the pain decreases.
Intraoral massage techniques: Temporalis and Pterygoid muscles
You can massage your temporalis and pterygoid muscles from inside your mouth.
Temporalis muscle
Locating the temporalis: From inside your mouth, reach up and out toward your temples. You should be able to feel the muscle.
Massage technique: Use small circles to massage the muscle. Focus on any spots that feel tender.
Medial and lateral pterygoid muscles
Locating the pterygoid muscles: These muscles are deeper and harder to reach than the temporalis. The medial pterygoid is on the inner surface of your mandible near the angle of the jaw. The lateral pterygoid is higher up, near your TMJ.
Massage technique: Use gentle pressure in an inward, slightly upward direction. These muscles can be sensitive, so be careful not to overdo it. Use small, circular motions.
After Your Massage
Here’s what to do after you massage your jaw muscles:
- Gentle jaw exercises: Slowly open and close your mouth, move your jaw from side to side, and then move it forward and backward.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water. The massage may release toxins, and water helps your body flush them out.
- Consistency is key: Regular massage is more effective than doing it every once in a while.
If you have any of the following issues, see a professional:
- Pain that doesn’t go away, even with massage
- Jaw movement that’s still limited after massage
- Suspicion that you may have TMJ disorder
Frequently Asked Questions
How to massage inside of jaw
To massage the inside of your jaw, wash your hands thoroughly. Gently insert a clean finger into your mouth and locate the muscles along the inside of your cheek, near your jawline. Use small, circular motions to massage these muscles, applying gentle pressure. Focus on any tender spots you find. Remember to be gentle and stop if you experience any sharp pain.
Should you massage your jaw muscles?
Massaging your jaw muscles can be beneficial if you experience jaw pain, tightness, or clicking. It can help release tension, improve circulation, and reduce discomfort associated with conditions like TMJ disorders. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dentist, doctor, or physical therapist before starting any new massage routine, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
How to release a jaw from inside
Releasing tension in your jaw from the inside involves gently massaging the muscles responsible for jaw movement. As described above, use a clean finger to locate and massage the muscles along the inside of your cheek. Focus on areas that feel tight or tender. You can also try gently stretching your jaw by opening and closing your mouth slowly while massaging the muscles. This can help improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
How to release muscle inside mouth
To release muscle tension inside your mouth, focus on massaging the muscles along your inner cheek and gums. Use gentle, circular motions with a clean finger. Pay attention to any areas that feel tight, knotted, or tender. You can also try gently stretching your mouth by opening and closing it slowly while massaging the muscles. Remember to relax your jaw and breathe deeply throughout the process. If you have persistent pain or discomfort, consult a healthcare professional.
In conclusion
Massaging your jaw muscles from inside your mouth can loosen them up and ease pain. Be sure to take it slow, use clean fingers, and stop if anything hurts. If you have jaw pain, this technique is worth a try as part of your self-care routine.