TMJ or Jaw Dysfunction Treatment
TMJ Dysfunction (Jaw Pain, Clicking, and Tension) & Chiropractic Care
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull and plays a role in everyday activities like talking, chewing, and yawning. When this joint or the surrounding muscles are not working well, it can lead to discomfort, tension, or changes in how your jaw moves.
TMJ dysfunction does not always feel like a jaw problem. It can show up as headaches, facial tension, or even ear-related symptoms. Because the jaw, neck, and upper back are closely connected, issues in one area can influence the others.
At Bridgwater Chiropractic, we assess how your jaw is moving, how the muscles are functioning, and whether the TMJ may be contributing to your symptoms.
Types of TMJ Dysfunction We COMMONLY See
Muscle-Related (Myofascial) TMJ Dysfunction
- Often related to tension, clenching, or stress
- Muscles around the jaw become tight or sensitive
- Jaw movement is usually available but uncomfortable
Disc-Related TMJ Dysfunction (Clicking or Popping)
- The small disc inside the joint may not move smoothly
- Often presents as clicking or popping with movement
- Jaw typically still opens fully
Restricted or “Locked” Jaw
- Limited ability to open the mouth
- May feel stuck or tight
- Can develop gradually or suddenly
Joint (Articular) TMJ Dysfunction
- Involves the joint surfaces themselves
- May feel stiff, restricted, or produce a grinding sensation
- More common with longer-standing issues
Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Book
Common Symptoms
How Chiropractic Care May Help
TMJ dysfunction can present in a number of ways, including:
- Clicking or popping when opening or closing the mouth
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Difficulty opening fully or chewing comfortably
- Headaches, especially around the temples
- Facial tension or tightness
- Ear-related symptoms such as ringing, fullness, or discomfort
- A feeling that your bite is not quite right
These symptoms may come and go, or gradually become more noticeable over time.
Please note: If you are experiencing any severe, unusual headache, especially with neurological symptoms, seek emergency medical care right away by calling 911 or going to the nearest ER.
How Chiropractic Care May Help
How Chiropractic Care May Help
Chiropractic care focuses on improving how joints and muscles work together.
For TMJ dysfunction, care may include:
- Gentle treatment of the jaw muscles to reduce tension
- Improving movement of the TMJ when appropriate
- Addressing contributing areas such as the neck and upper back
- Postural support to reduce strain on the jaw
- Guidance around habits such as clenching or chewing patterns
Care is always tailored to the individual. In many cases, improving how the jaw and surrounding structures function can help reduce symptoms and improve comfort.
If your presentation suggests that another provider would be helpful, we will guide you toward the appropriate next step and coordinate care when needed.
When to Seek an Assessment
When to Seek an Assessment
It may be helpful to have your jaw assessed if you notice:
- Ongoing clicking, popping, or shifting in the jaw
- Pain when chewing, talking, or yawning
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Frequent headaches with no clear cause
- Ear symptoms that have not been fully explained
- Jaw symptoms that are not improving on their own
You do not need to wait until symptoms are severe. Early assessment can often help prevent things from becoming more persistent.
If you have been dealing with jaw discomfort, headaches, or facial tension, your TMJ may be part of the picture.
We offer simple, focused assessments to help determine what is contributing to your symptoms and what the next step should be.