Maxillofacial Rehabilitation Therapy in Bristol
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Who it can help
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Children and adults experiencing:
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Jaw or facial pain
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Muscle tension
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Difficulty opening the mouth
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Problems chewing or swallowing
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Discomfort while breathing
Maxillofacial rehabilitation focuses on restoring comfort, mobility, and normal function in the jaw, face, and surrounding muscles.
Conditions Maxillofacial Rehabilitation Therapy Can Help With:
It is suitable for both children and adults experiencing pain, tension, or difficulty with everyday movements such as opening the mouth, chewing, swallowing, or even breathing comfortably.
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Individuals with:
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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (TMD)
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Facial paralysis
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Bruxism (teeth grinding)
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Post-surgical changes affecting the jaw or face
What treatment involves
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Treatment methods may include:
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Manual therapy for tight facial or jaw muscles
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Joint mobilisation to improve TMJ function
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Soft-tissue techniques
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Postural guidance
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Personalised strengthening or stabilising exercises
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Education and self-management to:
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Help patients understand their condition
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Prevent recurring symptoms
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Why Choose The Storm Clinic
Treatment carried out by Valerie Storm, a Chartered Physiotherapist and Cecile Declercq with over 20 years of experience
Central Bristol location with straightforward access
Treatment supported by research and recommended for stubborn tendon problems
Registered with the HCPC and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
What is the TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint or TMJ, is the joint that joins your jaw bone to the rest of your skull. You can feel it just in front of your ear hole. It can be painful for many reasons including poor posture, bad habits, growth disorder or injury and inflammation.
The TMJ is made up of the lower jaw bone (mandible) and the socket on the skull (temporal bone). There is a disc in between these two parts to allow the joint to open and close smoothly. This is held in place with muscles and ligaments.
Bruxism
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition characterised by the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often occurring during sleep but sometimes while awake. This repetitive action can lead to a variety of dental and jaw-related issues, such as tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches.
What Are the Causes of Bruxism?
Bruxism can result from various factors, including:
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Stress and Anxiety: Emotional tension often triggers teeth grinding.
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Sleep Disorders: Conditions like sleep apnoea are associated with bruxism.
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Malocclusion: Misaligned teeth or bite issues can contribute to clenching.
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Medications: Certain antidepressants and stimulants may cause bruxism as a side effect.
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Lifestyle Factors: Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption can exacerbate the condition.
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Neurological Conditions: Disorders like Parkinson’s disease may increase the risk of bruxism.
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Genetics: A family history of bruxism may predispose individuals to the condition.
How can Bruxism be managed?
Who Is Bruxism Treatment Suitable For?
Bruxism treatment is recommended for individuals who:
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Experience frequent jaw pain or stiffness.
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Suffer from headaches or earaches, particularly in the morning.
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Notice visible wear or damage to their teeth.
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Have difficulty sleeping due to grinding sounds.
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Struggle with dental sensitivity caused by enamel loss.
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Show signs of gum recession or bite misalignment.
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Seek to prevent further complications, such as TMJ disorders.
Early intervention is key to preventing long-term damage.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Appointments last around one hour. Cecile will assess the affected area, looking at facial muscle tone, habits such as clenching or grinding, posture and jaw mobility.
The treatment is gentle and should not cause any discomfort. Most people require a short course of three to five sessions, spaced weekly.
