Chronic Jaw Pain Treatment

Relief from Jaw Pain (TMJD), Headaches, and Neck Pain

Jaw pain can have a significant impact on your daily life —from eating and speaking to sleeping comfortably. What may begin as mild tension can gradually progress into more serious symptoms like sharp pain, jaw locking, clicking, or restricted movement.

At Crest Chiropractic, we evaluate and treat TMJD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) to help patients find long-lasting relief.

What Is TMJD?

TMJD refers to dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint or the surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including:

Persistent jaw pain

Neck pain and upper back tension

Frequent headaches

Ear pain or a sensation of ear fullness

Clicking, popping, or grinding in the jaw

Difficulty opening or closing the mouth

Episodes of jaw locking

Because the TMJ is closely connected to the muscles and joints of the neck and upper body, TMJD often involves more than just the jaw itself.

The Root Causes of Jaw Pain and TMJD

There are several factors that may contribute to TMJD and chronic jaw pain, including:

1. Posture and Neck Alignment

Forward head posture and poor spinal alignment can shift the position of the jaw, placing stress on the TMJ. Muscles like the anterior scalene, trapezius and levator scapulae often become tight and overactive, contributing to dysfunction.

2. Muscle Imbalances and Tension

Key muscles involved in jaw movement — including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoids — can become overworked, tight, and painful. Trigger points and adhesions in these muscles are a common source of jaw pain and headaches.

3. Joint Dysfunction

Restricted movement in the TMJ itself can lead to improper tracking of the jaw, resulting in clicking, popping, or locking.

4. Injury or Repetitive Stress

Previous trauma, teeth grinding (bruxism), or repetitive strain can all contribute to TMJD symptoms over time.

We take a comprehensive approach when evaluating TMJD. A thorough assessment may include:

Cervical (neck) and thoracic (upper back) alignment

Jaw alignment and symmetry

Range of motion of the neck and jaw

Evaluation of jaw tracking during opening and closing

Identification of clicking, popping, or jaw locking

Assessment of muscle tension, trigger points, and weakness in the following muscles:

Masseter

Temporalis

Pterygoids

Anterior scalene

Trapezius

Levator scapulae

This comprehensive approach allows us to identify the true cause of your symptoms — not just treat the surface-level pain.

Our care is personalized based on your specific findings. Your care plan may include:

✔ Muscle Therapy

Targeted work to release tight muscles, trigger points, and adhesions in the jaw and neck — especially in the pterygoids, masseter, temporalis, trapezius and surrounding structures.

✔ Chiropractic Adjustments

Precise adjustments to the jaw and spine help restore proper joint motion and reduce nerve irritation.

✔ Postural Correction

Improving posture specifically in the neck reduces strain on the TMJ and supporting muscles, helping prevent recurring symptoms.

✔ Stretching and Corrective Exercises

Custom exercises help relax overactive muscles and strengthen weak ones to restore balance and function.

Schedule Your Jaw Evaluation Today

If you're dealing with TMJD, chronic jaw pain, headaches, neck pain, or symptoms like ear fullness or ear pain, you're not alone — and you don’t have to live with it.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen — schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief.

At Crest Chiropractic, we proudly serve patients in Orem, Lindon, Vineyard, Pleasant Grove, Alpine, Cedar Hills, and throughout Utah County.

Schedule your New Patient Appointment Today by clicking here or call us directly at 801-701-8100.

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