You must have heard about Emface, the “20-minute facelift” people are raving about. Emface uses combined synchronised radio frequency (RF) and High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES™) to achieve a natural lift, tone, and tightness in the skin and muscles of the face. Treatments are gentle and with no downtime; you can even get a facelift during your lunch break.
But there’s more to this needle-free treatment than a natural lift. Recently, Emface has been FDA-cleared for the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction [1]. This innovation highlights the growing connection between wellness and aesthetics, where relieving chronic jaw tension can help achieve a smoother, more defined facial contour.
Emface offers a holistic solution by supporting muscle balance and function. Dr Refresh’s Emface treatments help you become more comfortable and confident in your appearance.
Understanding the Root of Jaw Tension and Bruxism
It is estimated that 10 to 35 million people in the U.S. are affected by TMJ disorders [2]. In Australia, approximately 10 to 50% of the adult population has TMJ disorders, leading to pain and discomfort [3].
TMJ dysfunction is prevalent and can be due to several factors, including:
- Injury to the jaw, head, or neck
- Jaw clenching, unconscious grinding (bruxism) due to stress or anxiety
- Poor posture (tech neck)
- Orthodontic treatments such as braces, aligners, and retainers
- Dental issues, such as new dentures or fillings, are causing an uneven bite
- Wear and tear of the TMJ due to osteoarthritis
- Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, or gout
In some cases, TMJ issues may surface without an obvious cause.
Chronic stress can lead to or worsen existing TMJ disorders. Stress can lead to daytime clenching and nighttime teeth grinding, placing increased pressure on the jaw joint and muscles and causing inflammation and pain.
The Importance of The TMJ
The TMJ connects the jawbone to the skull and works with surrounding tissues, such as the masseter, during chewing, speaking, and facial movements. When the masseter is overworked and hyperactive, it pulls the lower face downward and outward, leading to jaw discomfort. Along with pain, you also suffer from tension headaches and joint clicking, and develop a wider or square-jaw appearance.
How Emface Works Functionally to Relieve TMJ Pain
Emface is a breakthrough non-cosmetic treatment for TMJ disorders as its natural lifting benefits can actually help relax a tight jaw.
The Biomechanics
HIFES technology in Emface delivers low-frequency stimulation to the facial muscles, resulting in rhythmic, controlled jaw muscle contractions. This breaks the cycle of chronic spasm and clenching, re-educating the muscles, relaxing and training them to work with improved coordination.
Meanwhile, synchronised RF gently warms deep tissues, increasing local circulation and reducing muscle spasm. RF energy promotes muscle recovery, mobility, and comfort.
Together, these technologies break the cycle of muscle spasms, allowing the masseter muscles to let go and restore a more comfortable range of motion.
The Aesthetic Bonus: Jawline Definition and Submentum Tightening
There’s a bonus to getting TMJ disorder treatments using Emface. With the Emface Submentum applicator, patients can expect a tighter and more defined jawline contour as they relax their jaw muscles.
The Result
As Emface relaxes the jaw muscles, the Submentum applicator actively targets the under-chin area. It metabolises excess submental fat and stimulates the production of large amounts of collagen and elastin, creating a smoother, youthful appearance under the chin.
So, when you come in for Emface treatments to address TMJ pain and discomfort, you also achieve skin tightening in the lower face and neck, creating a smoother, more contoured look. Along with amazing skin health benefits, patients usually notice a more lifted, youthful glow in the face and neck, and look healthier and more refreshed.
Emface vs. Traditional Muscle Relaxants for Jaw Clenching
TMJ dysfunction sufferers used to rely on muscle relaxants to ease pain and discomfort. Despite being effective for symptom management, chronic use may come with severe risks.
The Reality of Traditional Treatments
Injectable muscle relaxants were the gold standard for the management of TMJ symptoms. However, these shut down the muscle. Eventually, paralysing the masseter leads to the overlying skin losing structural support, resulting in sagging and jowls, and promoting a hollowed appearance.
The Emface Difference
Emface treats TMJ dysfunction differently by restoring natural muscle harmony and tightening the skin as well. It is a sustainable, long-term solution to TMJ issues that removes the risk of masseter paralysis and facial tissue collapse. Plus, you get a bonus skin-tightening treatment for the lower face and neck, helping you look younger and fresher.
What to Expect During Your TMJ Relief Session at Dr Refresh Ultimo
Your journey towards relief from TMJ pain and discomfort starts at our luxurious, modern clinic, where you will feel comfortable and safe throughout your Emface treatment. Our team will guide you through the procedure and ensure all your concerns are understood beforehand.
The Treatment Process
During Emface TMJ therapy, you will experience a warm sensation, deep-tissue massage, and gentle pulsing. These sensations help relax tight jaw muscles and remove tension. Emface is soothing and best for those experiencing stiffness, headaches, and fatigue.
Simple, Safe, and Convenient
Emface is needle-free, so there’s no bruising and no downtime. In fact, you can return to your normal routine as soon as the treatment is over. The standard Emface TMJ treatment protocol involves four 20-minute sessions; however, your personalised plan may vary depending on your condition and goals.
Learn more about Emface treatments at Dr Refresh through our blogs. This includes how we use this latest technology to support skin tightening due to rapid weight loss and other body fat reduction treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Emface for TMJ hurt?
No, Emface for TMJ disorders is gentle. Patients report a deep warmth and rhythmic pulsing that feels incredibly soothing. Some say that it’s like “everything finally letting go” in the jaw.
How quickly will my jaw tension improve?
Most patients experience a significant reduction in pressure and improvement in symptoms after their first session, with compounded results over the 4-6 week treatment plan.
Will treating my TMJ with Emface change the shape of my face?
Yes, in a positive way. By releasing tense muscles and tightening the submental skin, you will achieve a softer, slimmer, and more contoured facial appearance.
Is the Submentum applicator used in standard Emface treatments?
The Submentum applicator is a specialised addition designed to reduce a double chin and improve the jawline, tailored to the patient’s specific anatomical needs during the initial consultation.
Start Your Lift and Relief Journey. Book Your Consultation.
You shouldn’t have to choose between living a pain-free life and looking your best. With Emface, you enjoy restorative wellness and advanced aesthetics, providing the best natural relief from jaw tension and pain while enhancing facial and neck lift and definition.
Ready to release years of jaw tension and sculpt your profile? Book an Emface TMJ and Submentum consultation at Dr Refresh in Ultimo today. Experience the future of functional aesthetics.
References
[1] The Dermatology Digest – U.S. FDA Clears BTL’s Emface for Treating TMJ
[2] TMJ.org – TMJ Basics – What is the Temporomandibular Joint?
[3] Blue Gum Dental Clinic – What Can Dental Crowns Do For TMJ Disorders?
