Frequently Asked Questions for Buccal Massage

What is Buccal Massage?

Buccal massage is a specific technique that targets the lips, lower face and jaw area.  It is a preventative and corrective technique that is unique as it is blends facial sculpting massage with an intra-oral massage (performed inside of the mouth). This allows access to muscles that are not normally addressed, making it a wonderful treatment for sculpting, relaxing and improving lower facial tone.

 

What are the benefits of a Buccal massage?

 Buccal Massage can help to:

  • Rejuvenate the Lower Face

  • Relax Tight Muscles of the Jaw

  • Tone and Sculpt the Lower Face

  • Improves the Complexion

  • Reduce Puffiness of the Cheeks and Lower Face

  • Improve the Jawline

  • Soften Lines on the Lower Face

  • Softens Lip Lines

  • Reduce TMJ pain

  • Reduce Headaches and Migraines from Clinching

  • Stimulate healthy Lymph Drainage of the face

  • Support Healthy Detox of the Facial Area

  • Improve Circulation to the Face for a Healthy Glow

  

How many sessions will I need?

Typically, a recommended series includes 6 to 8 weekly treatments, which is then followed by a maintenance treatment once a month.  Results can be seen after the first visit, but the difference is more noticeable after the third or fourth treatment as the results are cumulative.

 

How does it work?

Buccal massage works simultaneously on the inside of the face, through the oral cavity, and on the outside of the face.  This allows deeper layers of the muscle tissue and ligaments to be reached and addressed.  The specific movements of this massage help to stimulate and retrain the muscles to promote more of a lifting effect on the face and improve muscle elasticity.  It helps to relax tension in both the deep and surface areas of the muscles which encourages a more natural facial posture.

Super tight muscles can inhibit healthy blood flow which can decrease the nutrients and oxygen that feed and supports the muscles.  It can also restrict the detox abilities in the tight areas which can lead to puffiness, drooping, sagging, and a dull complexion.  With many lymph nodes in the cheeks, jaw, and neck, buccal facial massage also improves lymph flow to reduce puffy eyes, dark circles, and sagging skin, while improving skin detoxification.

 

What happens during the treatment?

1)    During the treatment the client will be lying down comfortably.  We will start with a facial cleanse to remove any make up, sunscreen or other products.  

2)  We will then begin the treatment with facial and intra-oral massage to work on the lower facial area and jaw.  The intra-oral portion of this treatment is performed with gloves. We will be stimulating different facial acupuncture points with pressure which will further support the treatment.

3)    If you have a lot of jaw tension, you may experience some discomfort during the massage. We will always check to see if the pressure is okay and adjust accordingly.   

4)    After the Buccal massage is completed, we apply a Hydrojelly mask on the face. The mask will be customized to the client’s specific needs to achieve the proper support and nourishment to the facial area and skin.  While the mask is setting, an acupoint massage is done on the head and neck area and a jade roller is used over the mask once it is completely set.

5) Once the mask is removed, organic facial products are applied to complete the treatment session.

 

What should I do after a treatment?

It’s common to feel deeply relaxed after a session, but your facial muscles might feel a little fatigued. Depending on your level of tension going into the treatment, your face or jaw may feel sore, achy, or tender. If so, apply a warm compress to soothe the muscles.

It is important to stay well hydrated after a treatment to help flush any toxins released during the session.  It is absolutely fine to carry on with your normal daily activities after a session, but we do recommend that you take it easy for the day.  You may experience a little fatigue after the treatment which can be normal.  In very rare cases client may experience cold like symptoms such as headache or slight body aches for a  few hours after the treatment, which can simply be a sign of your body’s natural healing and detoxification process in action as thing are getting flushed out of the system. 

 

When will I start seeing results?

Results can be seen after the first visit, but the difference is more noticeable after the third or fourth treatment since the results are cumulative.

 

Is the treatment painful?

The treatment is normally very comfortable.  However, if you have a lot of jaw tension, you may experience some discomfort during the massage. Usually it's a good, therapeutic discomfort, but we will always check to see if the pressure is okay and adjust accordingly.

Will it help my TMJ pain?

Yes! Tension in the muscles from clenching, grinding or chewing can increase jaw pain if you suffer with TMJ issues.  A  Buccal massage is a wonderful way to relax and support healthy muscle function in the jaw area and relieve associated TMJ pain. 


Is a Buccal massage contraindicated for any conditions? Who shouldn’t do it?

Buccal Massage should not be done if you are experiencing any of the following:

  • Pregnancy

  • Thyroid Issues

  • Cancer

  • Local infection or irritation

  • Acne

  • Rosacea

  • Lymphatic Issues

  • Cold sore outbreak

  • Bleeding Gums