TMJ Pain & Dysfunction

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that as many as 10 million people have TMJ disorders (TMD).

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders are a group of conditions creating pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement.

Through at-home exercise and stretches, gentle chiropractic care, muscle release, and class 4 laser therapy we can reduce your jaw pain and help boost your quality of life.

What is TMD?

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a medical condition affecting the muscles and joints responsible for chewing, known as the masticatory system.

TMJ Anatomy

This system comprises the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), which consists of a soft cartilaginous disc positioned between the mandible’s condyle and a socket in the temporal bone. Additionally, it involves four adjacent muscles: the Masseter, Temporalis, Lateral Pterygoid, and Medial Pterygoid muscles. The function of this complex system is primarily regulated by Cranial Nerve Five, also known as the Trigeminal nerve. Notably, the TMJ is situated in close proximity to the ear and the C1 vertebrae, often exhibiting interrelated issues.

Common Causes

  • Trauma to the jaw
    • Sports injuries
    • Car accidents
    • Braces or retainers
    • Dental surgeries
  • Dental & Orthodontic issues
    • i.e. tooth aches, cavities, improper orthodontic fit
  • Joint and muscle restriction in the neck
  • Overuse
    • Chewing asymmetry
    • Postural load
    • Teeth clenching
  • Joint degeneration and arthritis

Common Symptoms

  • Pain in the jaw or jaw muscles
  • Audible popping, clicking, or crepitus with jaw movement
  • Aberrant movement with opening/closing the jaw joint
  • Ear aches
  • Headaches/Migraines
  • Pain in the base of the skull
  • Difficulty opening the jaw fully
Symptoms are more common in people aged 25-50 and generally 2-3x more common in female patients.

What does treatment for your jaw pain look like??

Depending on how you present clinically, your age, your overall health, and how you tolerate therapies will guide and direct your treatment. In general, you can expect a focus on correcting jaw movement patterns with soft tissue manipulation, both on the outside of the jaw and the inside of the jaw where the deeper musculature is found, as well as jaw stabilizing exercises, spinal manipulation, and class 4 laser therapy.

If for some reason you fail to respond to our care or if you experience any significant worsening we will refer you to a trusted provider for a dental, orthodontic, or neurologic consult.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge only and is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment.

Whether you are tired of the sound effects when you chew, or have been dealing with pain, schedule an appointment and stop living with a dysfunctional TMJ!

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