Dental Trauma
Many clients come to AJ Bodywork after experiencing dental trauma—this can include injuries to the teeth, gums, jawbone, or soft tissues of the mouth. Referrals come from our partnership with Gateway Biologic Dentistry in St George and by previous clients. We assist those who are looking for additional support in their healing process.
Dental trauma is something I’ve experienced personally. About five years ago, I had an accident while opening a canopy at the lake. Sand had gotten caught in the brackets, and as I pulled hard to loosen it, the pole snapped back and struck me in the mouth, dislocating my four front teeth. I immediately went to a local dentist who repositioned my teeth and created a splint to stabilize them. I was told I would need four root canals due to the damage—a recommendation confirmed by my regular dentist, an oral surgeon, and an endodontist. I was also advised that implants would likely be necessary within five years.
At the time, the cost of treatment wasn’t feasible for me, so I began exploring alternative approaches while waiting for better insurance coverage. Both my husband and I are trained in CranioSacral Therapy through the Upledger Institute, and he began working with me consistently—starting daily and gradually tapering over time.
Twenty months after the injury, I returned to the original dentist for follow-up X-rays. She noted that I hadn’t had the recommended root canals—which was clear from the imaging—but was surprised to see that my tooth roots had regenerated. While she couldn’t explain it, I quietly credited CranioSacral Therapy for supporting my healing journey.
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on approach that helps release deep physical and emotional tension held in the body, particularly in the cranium and jaw. It can be especially beneficial following dental work, trauma, or orthodontic treatment. By supporting proper alignment and easing restrictions in the tissues, CST can help relieve TMJ symptoms, headaches, and discomfort associated with dental procedures.
Some potential benefits of CST for dental care include:
Supporting post-operative healing by reducing pain and tension
Easing discomfort from braces or orthodontic appliances
Addressing TMJ dysfunction, teeth grinding, and related headaches
Releasing tension in periodontal tissues after trauma or dental work
Improved latching and feeding for babies pre- and/or post- tongue tie revision
Helping process emotional stress connected to dental experiences
In addition to CST, my husband and I are also trained in lymphatic drainage and foot zoning—both of which played a role in my own recovery.
Lymphatic drainage can support healing by reducing swelling, bruising, and discomfort while improving circulation and tissue repair.
Foot zoning (reflexology) works with specific points on the feet that correspond to different areas of the body, including the teeth and jaw, and can help relieve pain and promote balance.
As a side note, I’ve historically had very sensitive teeth and used to get frequent cavities despite good oral hygiene. After beginning regular foot zoning sessions in 2008 for chronic fatigue, I noticed by 2013 that I hadn’t had a cavity in years. Since then, I’ve only had one—something I personally attribute, in part, to consistent work on reflex points related to dental health.
If you or someone you know is dealing with dental trauma and looking for supportive, holistic care, I’d be happy to connect and share more.
Client Reviews:
Susan H. - I was amazed at the results of the Cranial work. The bite on the right side of my mouth has been off for years. I couldn’t even touch my back teeth together on the right side. However, when I was done with the session I was amazed that my bite was corrected! Amy is the best!
April T. - I have had jaw problems my whole life. It got to the point where I was told I had TMJ. I tried physical therapy and chiropractic solutions to no avail. After one appointment with Amy, my jaw was more relaxed than it had been in a while. My ears which usually struggle were popping like crazy and my tension headache from the jaw stress didn’t happen in the coming week. The more I go to Amy the better my jaw gets. She is a jaw saver. I don’t know what I would have done if my mom wouldn’t have randomly heard about her from a friend. Save your time and money going to a specialist and go see Amy.