SOMA (Splint Orthopaedic Myofunctional Appliance)
What is SOMA?
SOMA therapy is a specialised splint system designed to gently expand the upper palate and decompress the jaw joints without creating pain or muscle resistance. It is primarily used for:
• TMJ/TMD management
• Jaw limitation
• Chronic muscle tension
• Airway and functional concerns
How SOMA Works
SOMA works by:
• Gently “expanding” bony structures of the upper jaw
• Avoiding muscle “fight-back” that commonly occurs with traditional appliances
• Relaxing the muscles of mastication
• Decompressing the Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) into a stable, comfortable position
• By reducing muscle resistance, orthodontic correction can occur more efficiently and withbetter long-term stability.
Key Clinical Effects
1. TMJ & Pain Relief
- Decompresses the TMJ
- Provides relief for TMD symptoms
- Reduces muscle tension in the jaw and face
2. Nervous System Regulation
- Reduces sympathetic nervous system overactivity (“fight or flight”)
- Helps calm chronic stress patterns
- May reduce whole-body tension
3. Airway & Function
- Improves airway space
- Supports better breathing
- May improve swallowing, speech, eating, and sleep
Why SOMA Is Different From Standard Appliances
Many traditional fixed and removable appliances can:
- Lock maxillary sutures
- Create tension across the palate (especially with midline metal components)
- Increase muscle strain
- Trigger muscle “fight-back”
SOMA is designed to avoid these issues by:
- Allowing expansion without jamming cranial sutures
- Using a circular design that reduces midline stress
- Minimising strain on facial structures
- Preventing muscular resistance during treatment
This results in:
- More efficient orthodontic movement
- Reduced relapse risk
- Greater patient comfort
Broader Reported Benefits
Beyond orthodontics and TMJ management, SOMA therapy has been associated with improvements in:
- Chronic pain
- Respiratory issues
- Neck and spinal tension
- Sleep Quality
There is also a theoretical suggestion that widening the cranial structure may influence
neuroendocrine balance, though this remains hypothetical.
Overall Treatment Philosophy
SOMA integrates:
- Splint therapy
- Orthodontics
- Myofunctional treatment
The goal is to create a stable cranial and dental foundation so teeth can be aligned efficiently
and remain stable long-term.