Lips Together and Teeth Apart Aftercare

One of the most important steps in breaking the habit of clenching and grinding teeth is to become conscious when it occurs and to make an effort to make some changes. One excellent way to avoid clenching is to learn to keep the lips together and the teeth apart. This simple step will not only make it impossible to clench the teeth, but even more important, it will relax the very muscles that become tense and taut. It also permits normal positioning of the temporal mandibular joints. (TMJ)
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The more conscious you become about this relaxed position of the jaw, the sooner you will enjoy the benefits of decreased frequency and severity of headaches, a reduction of cracked or fractured teeth and less tooth sensitivity.

You must make a conscious effort to separate the teeth at the same time that you keep the lips closed. Repeat to yourself several times a day: “Lips Together and Teeth Apart”, especially when you are aware that you are clenching or grinding your teeth.

You will feel better and an added benefit is you’ll find this will improve your expression and appearance.

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I’ve been going to Joplin Family Dental for 6-7 years. The staff are so friendly and helpful. And we love Dr. Kirk. My son is physically challenged and they’ve always really worked to make it the easiest possible. Beth, our hygienist, is super and we love her, too. As a formerly anxious dental patient, I highly recommend Joplin Family Dental.
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Always happy to see the folks in the reception desks. They are friendly and always willing to help as needed. They're genuinely interested in the welfare of my family. Lisa is my hygienist. She understands my particular needs and sees to it that they are met. I feel totally relaxed having Lisa delve around in my mouth. My experience with others within the practice are equally positive.
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I am always in the best of care when I visit my dentist and his dental technicians!!
I never dread or fear going to my appointment, because they are the best at making me comfortable!!
Dr. Paustian, Susan, and Becky have always done such a great job taking care of my teeth and making sure the procedure has been pain-free.

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Where to start, I’ve been a patient here for some time and while all the staff from the receptionist to my hygienist, Beth is great. Devon is my favorite. She’s very personal and caring and so knowledgeable I’m what she does. Definitely, in my opinion what keeps me coming back.
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