TMJ Pain
TMJ disorder is one of those conditions that’s easy to overlook—until it starts affecting your ability to chew, talk, or sleep. At Elite Chiropractic, we understand that TMJ pain can stem from more than just your jaw. That’s why we take a comprehensive, full-body approach to identifying root causes and providing lasting relief. Whether you’re dealing with a recent flare-up or chronic discomfort, we’re here to help.
OVERVIEW
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disorder refers to dysfunction or pain in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. The TMJ connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your temporal bone (side of the skull), making it essential for chewing, speaking, swallowing, and more.
TMJ dysfunction is more than just jaw discomfort—it can cause headaches, earaches, and even neck pain. At Elite Chiropractic in Salt Lake City, we take a full-body approach to TMJ care, treating not just the joint, but also the muscular and postural imbalances that contribute to long-term discomfort.
SYMPTOMS
TMJ symptoms can vary from mild to severe. The most common signs include:
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Pain or tenderness in the jaw or around the ear
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Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
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Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
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Headaches or neck pain that seem connected to jaw tightness
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Locking of the jaw or limited range of motion
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Tension in the temples or face
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to evaluate jaw function before symptoms worsen.
CAUSES
TMJ disorder may develop gradually or after an injury. Common causes include:
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Stress and jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)
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Poor posture, especially in the neck and shoulders
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Trauma to the jaw or head
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Excessive gum chewing or hard foods
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Recent dental procedures
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Arthritis or joint degeneration
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Neck dysfunction or spinal misalignment
At Elite Chiropractic, we work to uncover the true source of your TMJ dysfunction and build a treatment plan around your specific cause.
DIAGNOSIS
Proper TMJ diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. During your first visit, your chiropractor will:
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Review your medical history and symptoms
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Examine your jaw movement and range of motion
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Palpate key muscles such as the masseter, temporalis, and lateral pterygoid
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Assess your neck and upper spine for joint or muscle dysfunction
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Evaluate posture and stress-related habits
We may also coordinate with your dentist or physician when necessary to ensure comprehensive care.
FAQs
Q: Can TMJ pain go away on its own?
A: TMJ pain can sometimes resolve with rest or habit changes, but many cases become chronic. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term issues.
Q: Is chiropractic safe for TMJ?
A: Yes! Chiropractic care for TMJ is safe, gentle, and non-invasive. We use targeted techniques that relieve tension and restore proper movement.
Q: Do I need a referral from a dentist?
A: No referral is necessary. Many patients see improvement with chiropractic care alone, though we’re happy to coordinate with your dentist if needed.
Q: What’s the difference between jaw surgery and chiropractic care?
A: Surgery is invasive and comes with risks like nerve damage. Chiropractic focuses on root causes—muscle tightness, joint dysfunction, and poor posture—making it a safer, first-line treatment.
EVALUATION
Every patient’s TMJ case is unique. At Elite Chiropractic & Performance Center, we take the time to evaluate:
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Muscle imbalances in the jaw, neck, and upper back
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Spinal alignment, especially in the cervical spine
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Postural patterns that strain the TMJ
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Daily habits contributing to overuse or irritation
This thorough evaluation ensures your treatment is tailored to your exact needs—not just a one-size-fits-all approach.
CMT + THERAPIES
Our TMJ treatment combines chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and gentle mobilization for lasting results:
1. Cervical Spine Adjustments
Many TMJ symptoms stem from misalignments in the neck. Adjustments to the upper spine relieve nerve interference and help the jaw move correctly.
2. Jaw Muscle Therapy
We focus on the three key muscles that affect TMJ function:
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Masseter – primary chewing muscle
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Temporalis – side of the head, often linked to headaches
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Lateral pterygoid – controls jaw opening and alignment
Targeted therapy releases tension, improves mobility, and reduces inflammation.
3. TMJ Mobilization
Using precise, low-force techniques, we help guide the jaw joint back into healthy movement patterns—without the need for surgery or drugs.
PREVENTION + ERGONOMICS TIPS
Small daily habits can have a big impact on jaw health. Follow these expert tips to reduce your risk of TMJ flare-ups:
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Eat soft foods and avoid gum, chewy candies, or tough meats
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Avoid clenching your jaw—keep a slight space between teeth when at rest
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Improve posture—use a lumbar support and keep screens at eye level
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Practice stress management—try breathing exercises, yoga, or journaling
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Sleep on your back with proper neck support
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Use a headset instead of holding a phone between your neck and shoulder
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Stay hydrated and consume magnesium-rich, anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, seeds, and salmon
OUR ELITE APPROACH
STEP ONE:
PAIN RELIEF
Fix your pain without pills or surgery and get you back to life, sport, or work. We’re trying to get your pain under control and start you on your way to a full recovery.
STEP TWO:
RETURN TO FUNCTION
