INTRA-ORAL MASSAGE (TMJ)
A gentle, specialized massage of the soft tissues/muscles of the jaw and surrounding areas.
Intra-oral massage is a massotherapy approach focused on the muscular and myofascial relaxation of soft tissues involving the muscles of mastication, the jaw, and surrounding regions.
Sessions generally begin with external massage techniques applied to commonly tense areas such as the neck, upper back, shoulders, face & head. This helps promote overall relaxation and allows the client to settle comfortably before incorporating intra-oral massage as part of the session.
In accordance with massotherapy hygiene standards and using appropriate gloves, the massage therapist may gently access the inside of the mouth to work on certain muscles of mastication accessible intra-orally.
This approach allows access to areas that are difficult to address using external techniques alone.
This massage aims to promote reduced muscular tension, improved comfort, and a greater sense of ease in movement.
This service is provided by a licensed massage therapist within the scope of massotherapy. It is not a physiotherapy, medical, or dental service, and it does not replace an evaluation or treatment provided by those professionals.
What Is the TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull, located just in front of the ears. It functions like a sliding hinge that allows you to open and close your mouth, as well as make small forward, backward, and side-to-side movements. It is one of the most active joints in the body, involved in chewing, speaking, and swallowing.
When the muscles around the TMJ become tense or overworked, this can create discomfort and affect jaw mobility. Prolonged tension may also radiate into other areas such as the face, neck, head, or upper back.
Common and Possible Manifestations of Muscle Tension Around the TMJ
Some people seek massage therapy for:
• tension/pain in the jaw area
• facial sensitivity or discomfort
• difficulty opening the mouth (Lock jaw) or a feeling of tightness
• headaches/migraines
• muscle tension in the neck or upper shoulders
• pressure sensations near the ears
• discomfort when chewing or after long dental procedures
Massage therapy may help reduce muscular tension, promote relaxation, and improve overall comfort!
Factors That May Contribute to Muscle Tension Around the TMJ
Jaw tension can be influenced by several factors, such as:
• clenching or grinding the teeth (bruxism)
• stress and muscular fatigue
• prolonged posture (computer work, phone use, precision tasks)
• impact or physical exertion
• daily habits or involuntary jaw tightening
Stress often plays a significant role: when the body is tense, the jaw muscles may contract consciously or even during sleep.
Intra-Oral Massage therapy (TMJ) :
First Intra-Oral Massage Session (90 minutes)
• Client intake and discussion
• Upper back, neck, shoulders, head, and face massage (with myofascial stretching as needed)
• Intra-oral massage
• Facial massage with Gua Sha and jade roller
• Jade relaxation mask
Additional Intra-oral Massage Sessions (Different Options Available)
– Intra-oral massage ”Essential” (60 minutes.)
Upper back, neck, shoulders, head, and face massage (with myofascial stretching as needed)
• Intra-oral massage
• Facial massage with Gua Sha and jade roller
• Jade relaxation mask
– Intra-oral massage ”Essential Plus” (90 minutes.)
• Full-body therapeutic massage (60 min.)
• Intra-oral massage
• Facial massage using Gua Sha and jade roller techniques
• Jade relaxation mask
– Intra-oral massage ”Essential Plus” (120 minutes.)
• Full-body therapeutic massage (90 min.)
• Intra-oral massage
• Facial massage using Gua Sha and jade roller techniques
• Jade relaxation mask
This information is provided for general educational purposes only.
All services are offered by a licensed massage therapist within the scope of massotherapy and focus on soft-tissue/muscle relaxation and well-being.
Massage therapy services are not medical, dental, or physiotherapy services and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace care provided by regulated healthcare professionals.