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TMJ and Jaw Pain

Jaw pain, jaw clicking, stiffness, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, facial pain, or even headaches and ear‑fullness may all stem from issues involving the jaw joint (the Temporomandibular Joint or TMJ) and its surrounding structures. At Vital Balance we treat these not as isolated dental problems but as neurologic‑structural dysfunctions involving the jaw, neck, spine and brain‑body connection.

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Our Approach Includes:

1. Functional Neurologic & Structural Evaluation
We assess how well your jaw, neck, spine and neurologic systems are working together. This includes:

  • Joint mobility of the TMJ (how the jaw opens/closes and moves side to side)

  • Upper cervical and cranial alignment

  • Spinal posture and cervical motion

  • Eye‑movement, vestibular and proprioceptive integrity (because neck/jaw problems often tie in with these systems)

  • Muscle tension and soft‑tissue imbalance in the jaw, face, neck and upper spine

 

2. Upper Cervical & Jaw‑Joint Correction
Misalignment of the upper cervical spine (C1/C2) and cranial structures can impact the brainstem, reflexes, and nerve input to the jaw and facial muscles. We use gentle, precise techniques to restore alignment to these regions as well as the jaw joint itself. Correcting the jaw joint mechanics, reducing abnormal strain in the TMJ and relieving tension in associated muscles helps restore normal function.

3. Neuro‑Muscular & Soft‑Tissue Rehabilitation
Because TMJ dysfunction often involves tight or imbalanced muscles (masseter, temporalis, pterygoids) and postural‑based sensory issues, we provide targeted rehab that includes:

  • Soft‑tissue therapy and myofascial release around the jaw, neck and upper spine

  • Muscle‑activation and stretching routines for the jaw and cervical region

  • Neuro‑motor drills for integration of jaw movement, posture, vestibular input and cervical stabilization
    These steps help reduce clicking, improve jaw motion, decrease pain and restore more automatic neuromuscular control.


We commonly help people who:

  • Experience jaw pain, clicking, popping or locking

  • Have unexplained facial pain, ear pain or headaches tied to jaw movement

  • Have postural issues or neck pain combined with jaw dysfunction

  • Have tried dental splints or standard treatments but still feel “something’s off”

  • Want a neurologic & structural perspective alongside dental care

 

Why This Approach Matters
Because the TMJ is connected to the cervical spine, cranial nerves, vestibular/ocular systems and the brainstem, treating just the joint or muscle in isolation often isn’t enough. By addressing alignment, nervous‑system input and soft‑tissue function together, we aim for deeper, more lasting relief—not just symptom masking.

If your jaw doesn’t feel right, or pain persists despite other treatments, you don’t have to accept “that’s just how it is.” Schedule a consultation and let’s create a plan to restore your jaw, posture, and neurologic connection so you can move, chew and rest without pain or strain.

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