Craniosacral Therapy and Mouth Work

Did you know that craniosacral therapy is an effective treatment option for any pain or inflammation caused by dental work or surgery, orthodontic work for teeth and jaw realignment, TMJ issues and cranial nerve dysfunction? 

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle form of bodywork that involves the manipulation of the cranial bones, spine and sacrum to release tension and restore proper function to the central nervous system. By applying gentle pressure to specific areas of the body, a craniosacral therapist can help to realign the bones of the skull and jaw, release tension in the muscles and connective tissues and promote the flow of cerebrospinal fluid throughout the body. Furthermore mouth work, which may include techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy, can help to address issues with the muscles and connective tissues of the jaw and face. By working with these tissues, a therapist can help to improve circulation, reduce tension and promote healing in the affected areas. This can help to alleviate pain, improve range of motion and promote better alignment of the jaw and teeth.

During a craniosacral therapy session, the therapist will use gentle techniques to manipulate the bones, muscles and connective tissues of the head, neck, and face. Internal mouth work involves the therapist wearing a medical glove and working with the inside of the mouth. By applying pressure to specific areas of the body, the therapist can help to release tension and promote the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which nourishes and supports the central nervous system. In working with the underlying causes of misalignment or dysfunction for example, this can help to reduce pain and / or inflammation and promote optimal results from any medical or dental procedures performed thus allowing the patient a speedier recovery. 

Examples of issues mouth work in craniosacral therapy can help to address are:

Cranial nerve pain / dysfunction: 

The cranial nerves are a network of nerves that control many functions in the head and face, including vision, hearing and sensation. Cranial nerve pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma, inflammation or compression of the nerves. Craniosacral therapy and mouth work can help to alleviate cranial nerve pain by releasing tension in the muscles and connective tissues that surround the nerves. Additionally, it can help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can promote healing of the affected nerves.

TMJ dysfunction: 

This can cause pain, clicking and popping in the jaw joint, as well as headaches and ear pain. By releasing tension in the muscles and connective tissues of the jaw, craniosacral therapy can help to reduce inflammation and promote better alignment of the jaw and teeth. Additionally, mouth work techniques such as myofascial release can be used to address scar tissue and adhesions in the mouth and jaw, which may be the result of dental procedures or injuries.

 

Bruxism:

Craniosacral therapy can be a helpful complementary therapy for addressing teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Teeth grinding can cause a variety of issues, such as jaw pain, headaches, and damage to the teeth. While there are many factors that can contribute to bruxism, such as stress or misalignment of the teeth and jaws, craniosacral therapy can help to address the underlying causes of this condition. Craniosacral therapy can also help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with teeth grinding. By promoting relaxation and reducing tension, this therapy can help to alleviate jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms that may be associated with bruxism.

Jaw realignment: 

Jaw misalignment can cause a variety of issues, including headaches, neck pain and difficulty chewing or speaking. Craniosacral therapy can help to realign the jaw by releasing tension in the muscles and connective tissues that support the jaw, such as the temporalis and masseter muscles. This can help to reduce pain and improve range of motion in the jaw joint.

Orthodontic work / braces: 

In orthodontic work, braces are periodically adjusted and ‘tightened’. This can result in tension and discomfort in the jaw and facial muscles, which can lead to headaches, neck pain and difficulty chewing or speaking. Although this does tend to resolve itself naturally, craniosacral therapy can help to alleviate these symptoms by releasing tension in the muscles and connective tissues of the jaw and face. This can help to reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, and improve overall comfort during and after brace tightening procedures. 

During such realignment procedures, the goal is to move the teeth and jaws into a more optimal position for function and aesthetics. However, the underlying tension and misalignment in the muscles and bones can make it difficult for these changes to hold over time. Craniosacral therapy can help to address these underlying issues by releasing tension and realigning the bones and tissues of the jaw, skull, and neck. By promoting proper alignment and function of the muscles and bones, craniosacral therapy can help to support the changes made during realignment procedures and help to prevent relapse. Additionally, by reducing tension and promoting relaxation, craniosacral therapy can help to alleviate pain and discomfort during the recovery period.

In summary, craniosacral therapy and mouth work can be beneficial for a wide range of dental and cranial issues. By addressing both the structural and soft tissue components of these issues, this treatment work can help to promote overall health and wellbeing and may be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, bruxism (teeth grinding) and trigeminal neuralgia. 

It's important to note that craniosacral therapy should be used in conjunction with traditional dental treatments and should not be used as a substitute for professional dental care. If you are undergoing a realignment procedure, it's great when we can work closely with your dental or medical provider to ensure that you are receiving the appropriate care and support throughout the process. If you are experiencing discomfort or pain related to brace tightening or other dental procedures, it's fundamental to consult with your dentist or orthodontist to ensure that you are receiving the appropriate care. 

At Nekawa we are happy to work with your dental and / or medical provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps to promote optimal results, overall health and wellbeing.

Book today if you are struggling with any of these issues or to complement a planned dental program of braces associated with teeth and jaw realignment or contact for more information.