TMJD and Jaw Pain Treatment

Jaw Pain Treatment: How Specialized Chiropractic Care Can Treat TMJD

If you've ever suffered from jaw pain or temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD), you know how disruptive and painful it can be. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most frequently used joints in the body—engaged in every conversation, bite, and yawn. Despite its importance, we often overlook the health of this critical joint until problems arise.

When the TMJ isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to a wide range of painful symptoms and largely impact daily life.

TMJ Anatomy: A Complex System of Movement

The TMJ is a complex structure made up of bones, muscles, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels, and a joint capsule. Here’s a quick, easy breakdown of the jaw anatomy:

Mandibular head: The rounded end of the lower jaw (mandible)

Mandibular fossa: A part of the temporal bone where the mandibular head rests

Articular disc: A small cushion between the two bones for smooth movement

Key muscles: Masseter, temporalis, and the lateral and medial pterygoids

Each component plays a vital role in proper jaw function. Any imbalance or tension in these areas can contribute to TMJD symptoms.

Common Causes of TMJD

TMJD can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Stress and increased muscle tension

Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)

Malocclusion or bite misalignment

Direct injury to the jaw or head

Symptoms may include:

Clicking or locking of the jaw

Limited range of motion

Jaw pain or tenderness

Inflammation or swelling

Headaches, earaches, or facial pain

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Chiropractic Assessment and Treatment for TMJD

At Crest Chiropractic, our experienced chiropractor Dr. Dustin Mattila DC provides conservative and effective TMJD treatment. During the assessment we will evaluate jaw opening and closing, symmetry of movement, muscle strength and muscle tone and pain/tenderness, Our jaw care can help decrease jaw pain, realign the jaw, improve muscle tone, improve opening and closing of the jaw and reduce stress on the surrounding muscles and joints.

Chiropractic TMJD treatments may include:

Gentle jaw adjustments to improve jaw alignment and mobility

Soft tissue work on the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles (chewing muscles) to release tension

Trigger point therapy for muscle and referred pain relief

Correcting posture issues in the cervical spine (neck) that can impact jaw function

Shockwave therapy to improve blood flow, decrease tension, and improve range of motion.

Some patients experience noticeable relief after just a few sessions. More complicated cases can take longer for improvement.

Home Care Tips for Jaw Pain Relief

In addition to in-office chiropractic treatment, here are a few home strategies you can try:

Cold Compress
Apply to the TMJ area for 10–20 minutes, 2–3 times per day to reduce pain and swelling.

Trigger Point Pressure
Use your fingertips to locate tender spots around the jaw. Apply light pressure for 10–20 seconds, rest, and repeat.

Gentle Massage
Using circular motions, massage from the TMJ down to the chin for 2–3 minutes once or twice a day. Avoid over-massaging.

Stress Reduction
Incorporate yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce tension that may affect the jaw.

Don’t Let TMJD Control Your Life

If you’re struggling with jaw pain or suspect you have TMJD, professional chiropractic treatment can help you find lasting relief. At Crest Chiropractic, we specialize in safe, non-invasive care for the jaw to get you back to living and eating comfortably.

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

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