TMJ Massage
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. There are many muscles that affect this joint. If you clinch your teeth, you can feel tightness in your scalp, face, jaw, and neck. Tightness in these muscles can contribute to headaches, jaw pain, and neck pain. I use several methods to help relax these muscles including trigger point work and myofascial release, as well as, basic Swedish massage, manual lymphatic drainage, and warm/cool compresses. I will massage your scalp, neck, your face, and inside your mouth. You should feel relief after the first session, but will mostly likely need 3-4 weekly sessions for longer lasting relief.
*If you have jaw pain due to TMJD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), consult your doctor to inquire if TMJ massage would be appropriate for your condition.
What is Buccal Massage?
Buccal is the Latin word for the cheek muscle. In Latin it is pronounced "boo-kul". Most English speakers, without medical backgrounds, say "buckle".
Buccal massage is a therapeutic technique that involves massaging the inside of the mouth, particularly the cheeks and jaw area, to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and improve circulation. This facial massage targets the muscles that are often involved in facial expressions, chewing, and clenching, such as the masseter and temporalis muscles. By working on both the external and internal areas of the face, buccal massage helps release tension, potentially easing symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, or TMJ* (temporomandibular joint) discomfort. Additionally, this technique can stimulate lymphatic drainage, enhance skin tone, and promote a natural, refreshed appearance. It is a holistic approach to facial wellness.
*To avoid unneccessary uncomfort, If you have TMJ pain, you will need to book a TMJ massage before receiving a buccal massage.
Myofascial Buccal and Facial Massage
The technique I use is probably different than what you may have experienced before or what you have seen on social media. My buccal facial includes manual lymphatic drainage of the face, head, and neck. I use myofascial release techniques to address both the fascia surrounding the facial muscles and the muscles. This is done slowly with little or no cream or oil. Once the tissue is released, I use more relaxing techniques to end the session.
Contraindications:
In addition to the contraindications to regular massage, Buccal massage is not appropriate if you have an active case of acne or a cold sore breakout. If you are prone to breakouts, please let me know and we can discuss precautions.
Buccal massage is also not appropriate if you have had Botox injections in the last 6 weeks. If you have fillers or threads, I will not be able to massage those areas for 4-6 months. If you have had a surgical face lift, I will need your surgeon's permission before Buccal massage. If you have had other procedures on your face that cause irritation or sensitivity, you will need to wait until the skin has healed.
If you have had recent dental work, we need to wait under the area is healed and you are no longer on antibiotics.
If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, you should not have Buccal massage. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is a connection between the mouth and the womb. I would rather err on the side of caution.
This is not a full list on contraindications. Please see the intake form and buccal addendum for more information. You will need to fill out both forms and discuss any contraindications with me within 24 hours of booking.
Other important notes:
When you come for a Buccal massage, your face needs to be freshly washed with no moisturizers applied unless your skin is very dry in which case you can apply a very light moisturizer. I am not an esthetician and cannot cleanse your face. Please time your visit to accommodate this. Let me know if we need to schedule outside normal business hours.
In most cases, 6 sessions, once a week, are recommended. After 6 sessions, clients usually come monthly for maintenance.
