Understanding TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull, enabling chewing, speaking, and yawning. TMJ disorders can cause:
Jaw pain and stiffness
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Headaches and facial discomfort
Limited jaw movement
Proper tongue and lip posture is often overlooked but plays a critical role in TMJ function and overall jaw health.
Why Tongue and Lip Posture Matters
Poor tongue and lip posture can contribute to:
Jaw misalignment: Incorrect tongue position can push teeth out of alignment, stressing the TMJ.
Muscle tension: Overactive jaw muscles increase pain and stiffness.
Teeth grinding and clenching: Misaligned tongue posture often worsens bruxism.
Breathing difficulties: Low tongue posture may contribute to mouth breathing, affecting sleep and TMJ stress.
Proper Tongue Posture
Tongue Resting Position: The tongue should rest gently against the roof of the mouth, not on the teeth.
Tip of the Tongue: Just behind the upper front teeth, lightly touching the palate.
Whole Tongue Contact: The back and middle of the tongue should also gently touch the palate to support jaw alignment.
Benefits:
Reduces TMJ strain
Improves bite and jaw alignment
Supports nasal breathing and proper swallowing
Proper Lip Posture
Closed Lips: Lips should be gently sealed without clenching the teeth.
Relaxed Muscles: Avoid tension around the jaw and facial muscles.
Breathing Through the Nose: Promotes better tongue posture and reduces jaw stress.
Benefits:
Reduces jaw tension
Supports TMJ alignment
Prevents excessive teeth grinding
Exercises to Improve Tongue and Lip Posture
Tongue Push-Up: Press your tongue against the roof of your mouth for 5–10 seconds, relax, repeat 10 times.
Lip Seal Exercise: Gently close lips, relax jaw, and hold for 10–15 seconds, repeating several times a day.
Chewing Awareness: Chew slowly with lips closed and tongue resting on the palate.
Jaw Relaxation: Open and close your jaw slowly while keeping lips gently sealed and tongue on the palate.
Consistency with these exercises can reduce TMJ pain, headaches, and teeth grinding over time.
Holistic Benefits
Proper tongue and lip posture can also improve:
Breathing and sleep quality
Facial muscle tone and aesthetics
Overall oral health
Posture and neck alignment
Contact Pain Free Dentists Sydney
If you suffer from TMJ pain, teeth grinding, or jaw discomfort, correcting tongue and lip posture can be a simple yet effective solution.
Call (02) 9558 8988, email info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au, or book online to schedule your consultation.