Chiropractic Care for TMJ and Jaw Pain
Focused care for jaw pain, clicking, and tension linked to the jaw joint, neck, and posture.
TMJ Chiropractor
Many people are surprised to learn that a Chiro 1st chiropractor can help with jaw pain. TMJ disorder, also called TMD, affects the temporomandibular joint. This is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull, just in front of each ear.
When the joint or the muscles around it are irritated, everyday things like chewing, talking, and yawning can hurt. Because the jaw, neck, and upper back work closely together, we look at all three during your exam.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
TMJ problems often build up over time from strain on the jaw muscles and joint. Clenching or grinding your teeth, often during sleep or at stressful times, is one of the most common reasons.
Other causes include a hit to the jaw or a whiplash injury, arthritis in the joint, forward head posture from long hours at a desk or on a phone, and holding your mouth open wide for a long time, such as during dental work.
What are the Symptoms of TMJ?
TMJ symptoms can come and go. If jaw pain keeps returning or makes it hard to eat or sleep, it is worth getting checked.
- Pain in the jaw, face, or in front of the ear
- Clicking or popping when you open your mouth
- Pain when chewing or yawning
- Trouble opening your mouth all the way
- A jaw that locks or catches
- Headaches, often at the temples
- Earaches or a full feeling in the ear
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Tight, tired jaw muscles
- Teeth that suddenly do not fit together well
- Facial pain that is worse in the morning
- Ringing in the ears
Chiropractic Care for Jaw Pain
Jaw pain is often tied to muscle tension, how the joint moves, and how your head and neck sit over your shoulders. Chiropractic care works on all of these, which is why it can be a helpful option for TMJ.
When Jaw Pain Needs Other Care
Many people put up with jaw pain for months, chewing on one side or avoiding certain foods. Over time this can add more tension to the jaw, face, and neck.
An exam can help find the likely cause. Some jaw problems are often managed together with your dentist, and if your symptoms point to something outside our care, we will refer you to the right provider.
If jaw pain comes with chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain spreading to your arm, call 911 right away.
Your Recovery
How We Treat TMJ at Chiro 1st
We focus on finding what is straining your jaw, then easing pain and building habits that help keep it from coming back.
Exam and Screening
A full exam of your jaw movement, neck, and posture, with X-rays when needed, to find the likely source of your pain.
Gentle Care
Gentle adjustments to the jaw and neck, plus soft tissue work to relax tight jaw and neck muscles.
Exercises and Habits
Jaw, neck, and posture exercises from our rehab and exercise program to help your jaw move smoothly and stay comfortable.
Tips for Easing Jaw Pain
These simple habits help many people with TMJ day to day:
- Choose softer foods and cut food into small pieces
- Avoid chewing gum and biting your nails
- Keep your teeth slightly apart when your jaw is resting
- Use a warm compress on sore jaw muscles
- Notice when you clench, such as at your desk or while driving
Learn more about adjustments on our chiropractic care page.
Related Conditions
Other Conditions We Treat
Jaw pain often shows up alongside other problems. These are related conditions our chiropractors treat every day.
Headaches
Tension headaches and migraines that often come with jaw clenching and neck tension.
Learn About Headaches
Whiplash
Neck injuries from car accidents and sudden trauma that can also strain the jaw.
Learn About WhiplashWhy Chiro 1st
Why Patients Choose Chiro 1st for TMJ
With more than 3,500 patient reviews and a 4.9 star average, patients across western Washington trust Chiro 1st for clear answers and steady progress. Here is what they tell us matters most.
Licensed chiropractors
Experienced doctors at every clinic. Meet the team.
Exam before treatment
Every plan starts with an exam, and digital X-rays when they are needed.
Seven clinics
Locations from Everett to Federal Way, with same-week visits at many clinics.
Insurance help
We help you understand your insurance coverage and handle the billing paperwork.
TMJ Chiropractor Near You
Every Chiro 1st clinic sees patients with TMJ and jaw pain, and you do not need a referral. Choose the clinic closest to you.
TMJ FAQs
Can a chiropractor help with TMJ?
For many people, yes. When jaw pain is linked to muscle tension, joint movement, or neck and posture problems, chiropractic care may help. Your chiropractor will start with an exam to see if your symptoms are a good fit for care.
Do chiropractors adjust the jaw?
Yes. Chiropractors can use gentle, low-force techniques on the jaw joint and the muscles around it. Care often includes the neck and upper back as well, since they affect how the jaw moves.
Do I need a referral?
No. You do not need a referral to visit any Chiro 1st clinic.
Should I see a dentist or a chiropractor for TMJ?
Both can help, and they often work together. A dentist checks your teeth and bite and may suggest a night guard for grinding. A chiropractor focuses on the joint, the muscles, your neck, and posture. If your exam points to a dental cause, we will let you know.
Can TMJ cause headaches and neck pain?
Yes. Tight jaw muscles can lead to headaches, often at the temples, and TMJ often comes with neck stiffness. Tell your chiropractor about all of your symptoms.
Meet Your Chiro 1st Chiropractors
Your TMJ care at Chiro 1st is provided by a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.). Our chiropractors trained at schools including Palmer College of Chiropractic, Life University, Life West and the University of Western States.
- Dr. Dilsharan Gill, D.C., Auburn
- Dr. Michael Schultz, D.C., Bellevue
- Dr. Guan Wang, D.C., Bellevue
- Dr. Sadeddin Yamlikha, D.C., Everett
- Dr. Justine Grewal, D.C., Everett
- Dr. Matthew Kill, D.C., Kent
- Dr. Patrick Gorrell, D.C., Capitol Hill (Seattle)
- Dr. Michael Bastron, D.C., Tukwila
- Dr. Brandon Cortes, D.C., Federal Way
Ready to Fix Your Pain?
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