What is the TalkTools® Jaw Exerciser?
The TalkTools® Jaw Exerciser™ is a clinician-designed pair of handheld tools used in a graded program to build consistent bite-and-release control. It targets jaw movement quality—steady opening and closing—rather than just strength.
Within OPT, it usually follows Jaw Grading Bite Blocks and Progressive Jaw Closure Tubes. Many clinics also include it in broader jaw programs and bundles for efficient onboarding and carryover.
Typical clinical goals include improved jaw stability, symmetry, and grading to support chewing skills and readiness for speech sound production.
What’s included (bulleted list)
- Two unassembled Jaw Exercisers
- TalkTools instruction booklet
How it works (in OPT)
Therapists progress a movement-and-resistance hierarchy—starting where the learner can succeed and increasing challenge as control improves. Compared with isometric Bite Blocks, the Jaw Exerciser emphasizes dynamic bite-and-release to build smooth, graded motion that transfers to functional chewing and speech.
Benefits & use cases
- Builds jaw grading (controlled open–close), stability, and symmetry.
- Supports carryover to chewing and speech sound shaping.
- Provides structured tactile input; helpful after Bite Blocks and Closure Tubes.
- Available as part of clinic bundles for streamlined setup.
Who it’s for
SLPs/SLTs, OTs, and trained caregivers working with clients who need targeted jaw control for feeding and speech. Use only under clinician guidance; choose activities that fit the learner’s developmental level. (No medical claims or guarantees.)
How to use (quick start)
- Review the instruction booklet and your clinician’s plan.
- Confirm readiness—many programs introduce the Jaw Exerciser after Bite Blocks and Progressive Jaw Closure Tubes.
- Begin with gentle bite-and-release reps, focusing on smooth, symmetrical movement.
- Increase challenge gradually (reps, duration, or positioning) only when form is consistent.
- Keep sessions short and positive; stop if fatigue or frustration appears.
- Adult supervision is required at all times.
Care & safety
- Hand-wash; tools are reusable, durable, and easy to clean. Dry before storage.
- Consider the TalkTools Cleaning Kit for thorough hygiene between users.
- Made from FDA-approved materials. Use only as directed; store out of reach of young children. Not a toy; not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Includes two Jaw Exercisers + booklet (SKU 1551); reusable and easy to clean.
- Dynamic tool for jaw stability, symmetry, and grading through movement and resistance.
- Typically follows Bite Blocks and Progressive Jaw Closure Tubes within OPT.
FAQs
Related terms
- Oral Placement Therapy (OPT): Tactile-kinesthetic approach that pairs tools and hierarchies to build movements for speech and feeding.
- Jaw Grading Bite Blocks: Isometric jaw holds at set positions; common precursor to the Jaw Exerciser.
- Progressive Jaw Closure Tubes: Six graduated tubes that teach volitional jaw closure.
- Bite Tube Set: Dynamic bite-and-release program for jaw control.
- OPT Program (kit): Comprehensive toolkit that includes jaw tools and resources for full OPT implementation.
- Jaw Program: Book + complete jaw tool set with Bite Blocks, Closure Tubes, Jaw Exercisers, and more.
Resources
- Course: Self-Study — Jaw Stability & Speech Clarity — assessment and treatment strategies for jaw control.
- Product page: TalkTools® Jaw Exerciser™ — features, SKU, contents.
- Book: Assessment & Treatment of the Jaw — step-by-step jaw techniques, including Jaw Exerciser activities.