A facial exercise programme involving devices used by dentists has shown great potential for the rehabilitation of facial nerve damage. This technique has been developed by researchers from the the Washington State University Spokane in the US.
This specific method uses Oral Performance Instrument which is a device that is associated with measuring tongue strength in patients with swallowing disorders, and the so-called Perry appliance to increase the strength of impaired facial muscle regions.
The custom-made device has a tape measure attached to a whitening tray. After seven weeks of intensive and 16 weeks of moderate strength exercises there was a significant increase in four impaired muscle regions proving that facial muscle weakness can be improved even years after the injury as was noted by the researchers.
Facial nerve defects often occur due to trauma, infection or facial surgery. Patients lose temporary control of facial muscles and are unable to smile, frown or control saliva glands. In a few cases the damage can also result in partial or total paralysis of the facial muscles.