The Facial Flex® exerciser can be used to supplement the dental-oral appliances used to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. In these X-rays a side profile view of the head structures and airway/throat (Lateral Cephalometric films) was done including with the use of the Facial Flex® exerciser to stretch and strengthen the anterior neck/hyoid and jaw muscles. This device is helpful in conditioning the base of tongue and supportive soft tissue for obstructive sleep apnea cases. The airway at the base of the tongue is opened further (increased volume) with this exerciser, as the orofacial muscles contract and strengthened with isokinetic movement. Two minutes, twice a day is the standard frequency of use; with sleep apnea patients it is suggested to do a third repetition before bedtime.

The Facial-Flex® exerciser duplicates the repositioning necessary with a dental oral airway dilator appliance such as the Silencer®. This helps prepare and condition the oral environment, improve sub-mandibular muscle tone, and encourages bringing forward the tongue base. Such exercise compliments the night-time jaw repositioning oral appliances in treating snoring and sleep apnea.

The TMJ Oral-Flex® Exercise System References:

1.    Grace E.: Use of the Facial-Flex Exercise System in the Treatment of Patients with Dysfunction of theTemporomandibular Joint. University of Maryland Dental School, 2000, ongoing clinical research study.

2.    Campbell D.: An Exercise in Better Sound Production. Advance Speech-Language Path & Audiology J, May 22,2000.

3.    Zarinnia K., Braun R., and Straja: A Clinical Study of the Effects of Facial-Flex in Patients with TMD, Temple University Dental School, publ. American Assoc. Orthodontists Conference, San Diego, May, 1999.

4.    Grove G.L., Rimdzius S.W., Grove M.J.: Changes in Facial Skin Biomechanics Due to a Mechanically Aided Resistance Exercise Program. Skin Study Center, Broomall, Pa. Private publ, 1997.

5.    Grove G.L., Rimdzius S., and Zerweck C.R.: A Mechanically Aided Exercise Program for Sagging Facial Muscles. Journal of Geriatric Dermatology, Vol. 2, #5, pp. 152-158, Sept/Oct. 1994.

6.    Creed J., and Spiegel J.R.: Using Facial Flex® to Assist Treatment of Articulation Disorders, CORA, 1998.

7.    Spiegel J., Creed J., and Emerich K.: The Use of Facial-Flex® as an Adjunct to Speech Therapy in the Treatment of Voice Disorders: A case Report.  Jefferson Medical College 1997.

8.    Spiegel J., Creed J., and Selber J.:  Recovery of Facial Muscle Strength in the Disabled through a Mechanically Aided-Resistance Exercise Program.  Jefferson Medical College 1998.

9.    Smith, Stephen D.: "Oralfacial Pain, TMD & Sleep Disorders Dentistry", 2nd Edition, 2000, Phila. College of Osteopathic Medicine Press, pp. 90-94