Orofacial Physiotherapy
The main components of the chewing system are the jaw joint, the teeth and the chewing muscles.
Indications for orofacial physiotherapy
If you recognise one or more of these symptoms, there is a good chance you are experiencing jaw and facial problems. More than 21% of the Dutch population has experienced these jaw problems at some point, yet only 2–3% seek help.
- Pain or fatigue in the chewing muscles
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Pain around the jaw joint (in front of the ear)
- Clicking or crunching jaw joints
- Hypersensitive or painful teeth and molars
- Abnormal wear of the teeth
- Earache
- Headache
- Neck pain
More about orofacial physiotherapy and how jaw pain develops
Jaw problems can develop through overloading of the chewing muscles — for example through clenching, grinding, nail biting, lip biting, cheek biting, chewing gum, biting pens or pressing the tongue against the teeth or palate. Stress can also play an important role in this overloading. Think of expressions like ‘gritting your teeth’ or ‘grinning and bearing it’.
Jaw problems can also originate in the jaw joint itself. The jaw joint contains a cartilage disc (the discus) that can become displaced (causing sounds) and lock the joint. This can result in a limited mouth opening. Jaw problems can also stem from dental issues. Teeth can wear down due to grinding, or there may simply be a toothache.
The orofacial physiotherapist, also known as a craniofacial therapist
The orofacial physiotherapist is a physiotherapist who has completed post-academic training, recognised by the Royal Dutch Society for Physical Therapy (KNGF) and the Dutch Association for Manual Therapy (NVMT), among others.
The orofacial physiotherapist specialises in examining and treating head, neck and facial pain and its consequences. They analyse complaints through an examination. If jaw problems are involved, the therapist can guide you personally — for example in cases of teeth grinding or jaw pain. If a different issue is found, the therapist will refer you directly to a specialist they work with.
Frequently asked questions about orofacial physiotherapy
Have another question? We are happy to help!