A method of reducing facial aging in a person, having an upper and lower
jaw bearing anterior or posterior teeth, comprises: a) providing a mass
produced universal dental appliance, which appliance comprises at least
one part, the or each part intended in use to be in continuous contact
with the teeth on either the upper or lower jaw, the or each part
comprising an elongate structure at least a portion of which is formed of
a durable, resilient, elastomeric material having a softening point in
the range from 35 to 100.degree. C. and has a surface which in use is in
continuous contact with the occlusal biting surfaces of at least two
teeth on either the upper or lower jaw, and wherein said appliance has
dimensions such that in use it provides a predetermined vertical
separation of the jaws which is at least 3 mm beyond the normal resting
position of the jaws; b) fitting said mass produced universal dental
appliance to at least two teeth on either the upper or lower jaw of the
individual; and c) exercising the lower jaw passively to allow the jaw to
come to rest in a new resting position, is disclosed. An appliance for
use in the method is also disclosed.