Orofacial therapists are also known as jaw physiotherapists. Orofacial physiotherapy helps with problems involving the muscles and joints in the head and neck area, particularly within the chewing system (including the jaw). The orofacial physiotherapist is specially trained and educated in dental-related issues, such as jaw pain when chewing, yawning, or difficulty opening the mouth. It also includes treatment for tinnitus, dizziness, balance disorders, specific nerve conditions, and other dysfunctions related to the upper neck.
Common complaints treated with orofacial physiotherapy include:
Anatomy of the jaw joint
The jaw joint is a joint where two bones meet, controlled by muscles. The main muscle responsible for jaw movement is the Masseter muscle, also known as the primary chewing muscle. Another important muscle in the area is the Temporalis muscle, which sits higher on the side of the head and can also contribute to headaches. Inside the jaw joint, there is a disc similar to the discs between the vertebrae in your spine. There are also ligaments (like small cables) that help provide stability and guide the movement of the jaw joint.

What does an orofacial physiotherapist do?
An orofacial physiotherapist uses a variety of interventions depending on the specific complaints. The treatment tailored to the individual’s needs and can serve different purposes. For example, mobilizing the jaw combined with exercises to improve range of motion. Relaxation techniques may also used to reduce tension in the jaw muscles. Treating tinnitus caused by pressure on the jaw joint is another area of expertise. In such cases, the physiotherapist also investigates possible causes, such as tension originating from the upper neck area.
At FysioCompany Waalwijk, we collaborate closely with ENT specialists from the ETZ Hospital to ensure the best care path
Have a question?
Check our FAQ – you’ll quickly find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
In principle, you can go to the physiotherapist for all types of pain in the movable parts of the body. Depending on whether the pain is in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, or in the harder parts of the body such as your spine or joints, it determines which therapist you should visit.
Read moreIf you have a complaint related to the musculoskeletal system that you believe a physiotherapist can help with, in most cases, you do not need a referral for physiotherapy. This applies regardless of whether the complaint concerns your muscles, joints, tendons, or ligaments.
Exceptions for a Physiotherapy Referral
Of course, there are exceptions where a referral for physiotherapy will required. This concerns chronic conditions that listed by the government. This list has created because chronic conditions often (partially) covered by the basic insurance.
When You’re Uncertain Whether You Need a Referral for Physiotherapy
If you are not sure whether you need a referral, the physiotherapist or our central office can always provide you with more information. Additionally, your health insurance policy will indicate whether a referral from your general practitioner or medical specialist is necessary for physiotherapy.
The cost of physiotherapy depends on how you are insured. If you are not insured for physiotherapy, you can view the rates in our pricing overview at the bottom of this page.
If you have additional insurance, it will always used first. If it fully used up or the coverage is insufficient, you will receive an invoice for your treatments.
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