TMJ Treatment

Understanding TMJ Disorder

If you experience jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or clicking sounds when you open your mouth, you may have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. At Bannon Clinic of Chiropractic, we offer non-invasive solutions to relieve discomfort and improve jaw function.

The TMJ connects the jaw to the skull, allowing movement for chewing, speaking, and facial expressions. TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or dysfunctional, leading to pain, tension, and restricted movement.

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Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Symptoms of TMD vary but may include:

Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
Difficulty chewing or speaking
Headaches and earaches, often mimicking migraines
Facial pain and muscle tightness
Neck and upper back pain
Jaw locking or restricted movement
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) due to TMJ-related muscle tension

Causes of TMJ Disorder

TMD can be triggered by various factors, including:

Jaw misalignment: Poor posture, dental issues, or an uneven bite can strain the joint.
Teeth grinding (bruxism): Excessive clenching and grinding wear down the joint and cause muscle tightness.
Stress and tension: Emotional stress can lead to jaw clenching and muscle tightness, worsening TMJ symptoms.
Injury or trauma: A direct impact to the jaw or head, or whiplash from an accident, can misalign the TMJ.
Arthritis: Degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to TMJ pain and dysfunction.
Poor posture: Forward head posture and prolonged screen time can strain the jaw and neck muscles, leading to TMD.

Chiropractic Treatment for TMJ

At Bannon Chiropractic, we offer gentle, non-invasive treatments to relieve TMJ discomfort and improve function, including:

Chiropractic Adjustments: Correct misalignments in the jaw and cervical spine to restore balance and reduce pressure on the TMJ.
Soft Tissue Therapy: Reduces muscle tension, breaks up adhesions, and improves blood flow around the TMJ.
Myofascial Release: Eases tightness in the jaw, facial, and neck muscles, reducing pain and improving range of motion.
Postural Correction: Helps correct poor neck and head positioning that may contribute to TMJ dysfunction.
At-Home Exercises: Jaw stretching and relaxation techniques enhance mobility and comfort while reducing tension.
Stress Management Techniques: Guidance on reducing jaw tension through mindfulness, relaxation, and stress-reducing activities.

FAQs About TMJ Disorder

Can chiropractic care permanently fix TMJ?

Chiropractic care can significantly improve TMJ function and relieve pain, but lifestyle changes, stress management, and ongoing care may be necessary for lasting results.

Is TMJ disorder linked to headaches?

Yes. TMJ dysfunction can contribute to tension headaches and migraines due to muscle strain in the head, neck, and jaw.

Should I avoid certain foods if I have TMJ pain?

Yes. Hard, chewy, or sticky foods can worsen symptoms. Opt for soft foods and avoid excessive gum chewing to reduce jaw strain. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to an increase in bruxism thereby increasing the likelihood of developing TMJ pain.

Can TMJ go away on its own?

Mild TMJ cases may resolve over time with rest and self-care, but chronic TMJ issues often require professional treatment to prevent worsening symptoms.

How can I prevent TMJ pain?

Avoid excessive gum chewing, manage stress, maintain good posture, and seek chiropractic care to keep your jaw and neck properly aligned.

Contact Us Today

Don’t let TMJ discomfort interfere with your life. Call Bannon Clinic of Chiropractic today to start your recovery journey!

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