Therapeutic exercise
Lateral Jaw Mobility
Active lateral mandibular mobilization. Maintains lateral translation range and reduces post-bruxism stiffness.
How to perform
- Starting position. Sit upright with the mouth slightly open.
- Step 2. Slowly slide the jaw to the right to the maximum comfortable range.
- Step 3. Return to the center and slide to the left.
- Return. Perform the movement without tensing the facial muscles.
When not to perform
- Painful clicking during the movement
- Joint locking
Medical disclaimer. These exercises are presented for informational purposes only. Always consult your physician before starting any exercise program, especially in case of acute pain, recent injury, or underlying clinical condition.
Related Exercises
Mouth Opening with Tongue on Palate
A limited mouth-opening drill performed with the tongue against the palate. Trains the deep mandibular flexors and prevents excessive masseter activation.
Controlled Mouth Opening
Restores symmetric mandibular opening. Central to conservative treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction with partial locking.
Resisted Mouth Opening (Isometric)
Isometric contraction of the suprahyoid muscles (mouth openers) against manual resistance. Strengthens the mandibular depressor musculature in TMD patients — especially useful when opening is limited or follows an S-shaped trajectory.