Buccal massage for TMJD and Sculpting

When I was in massage therapy school in 2010, we learned a technique called Intraoral massage aka "inside the mouth". (Using gloves of course!) It's great for TMJD pain, teeth grinders or clenchers, and headaches. We performed it one side at a time, going very slow, searching to feel the tight muscles, trigger points, sore spots and reactions of the client.

Now massage inside the mouth is trending as "Buccal" massage. I pronounce that B-YOU-cal but some say it like buckle. Buccal is a medical term referring to the cheek region. Estheticians provide buccal massage as a way to lift, plump, and firm the face while smoothing wrinkles and stimulating collagen production. In buccal with sculpting intentions, the esthetician is massaging quite fast with both hands at the same time, but also making some slow stretching strokes as well.

Since I am both a massage therapist and an esthetician, I am blending the important parts of both styles to bring you my version of Buccal massage, unique in Salt Lake City. Here's what you can expect in the buccal portion of my service:

1-I will cleanse your face with face wash and steam towels to remove germs, makeup, sunblock, moisturizer. I usually do a double cleanse but it depends on your skin.

2-Next I apply a magical hydrating toner and wrinkle-fighting hyaluronic serum. After those absorb, I apply organic vanilla lip balm and massage the face with my favorite nourishing honey mask.

3-I will let you know any time I need you to open your mouth a bit, otherwise try to relax your mouth in a gently closed position, but not clenched! You may swallow any time and let me know if you need a break or less pressure. The buccal massage starts with both hands, warming up and gentle stretching both sides of the cheek, jaw and mouth muscles. Upward lifting movements help with sagging skin and plumping.

4-The next phase is slow and attentive. I switch to one hand and slowly feel all the muscles of one side, searching for tension or trigger points to release. The fingers on the outside are working in sync with the thumb inside your cheek to grasp your muscles from under and over at the same time. We detail both sides, even if your pain is on one side.

5-I also stretch muscles that may be causing wrinkles and apply a friction technique that helps smooth them and stimulate circulation to tired skin. You will develop a rosy glow!

6-When all reachable areas have been massaged, I use another warm towel to remove the mask and excess lip balm. Then apply a moisturizer and spf (if daytime).

I offer different appointments for Buccal: As an hour with neck & shoulder massage, as an add-on to a full body spa massage, or as an add-on to any of our skin care facials. It’s crucial that we also massage the neck, shoulders, chest and scalp to reduce patterns that pull on the jaw or face! Combined with your other spa goals, it's so beneficial and relaxing! Book yours today using the purple button or text me if you have any questions. We are located in Millcreek, Salt Lake City.