TMJ Treatment in Wappingers Falls
Most people don’t think about their jaw until it starts causing problems. But when it does, it can be hard to ignore: clicking or popping sounds, morning soreness, headaches that seem to come from nowhere, and tension around the ears and neck.
At Driven Wellness, we help patients understand what is contributing to TMJ dysfunction and create tailored care plans designed to address the root cause, not just manage the discomfort.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints sit just in front of your ears on each side of your jaw, connecting the lower jaw to the skull. They are responsible for everyday actions like talking, chewing, yawning, and swallowing, movements most people make hundreds of times a day without thinking.
TMJ disorder, also called TMD, occurs when these joints or the muscles surrounding them aren’t functioning properly. The result can be pain, stiffness, restricted movement, and discomfort that extends well beyond the jaw itself.
Recognizing the Symptoms
TMJ disorders can look different from person to person. Common symptoms may include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing
- Facial pressure or pain
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Ear discomfort or ringing
- A feeling that the jaw is locking or catching
Because many of these symptoms overlap with other conditions, a thorough evaluation is important to identify what is actually going on.
What Causes TMJ Problems?
There is rarely one single cause. TMJ dysfunction often develops from a combination of factors, including teeth grinding or clenching, chronic stress and muscle tension, poor posture, neck dysfunction, previous facial or jaw injuries, and auto accident-related whiplash.
People who spend long hours at a desk or looking down at phones and screens often place extra strain on the muscles and joints that support both the jaw and neck, without realizing it.
Connecting the Jaw, Neck, and Nervous System
The jaw, cervical spine, and nervous system are closely interrelated, and tension or dysfunction in one area frequently influences the others. Dr. Benjamin Vallon and Dr. Kristina Schaeffler evaluate the full picture, looking at how posture, neck function, and nervous system health may be contributing to what you are feeling in your jaw.
Addressing cervical spine function alongside jaw care often produces better results than treating the jaw alone. Alongside chiropractic adjustments, care at the practice may incorporate SoftWave therapy, red light therapy, spinal traction, and posture and lifestyle guidance tailored to your situation.
Patient Success Story
Samantha started care specifically for TMJ. Could hardly eat a sandwich due to pain from opening her jaw. Caused neck tension. Had dramatic improvements through the chiropractic care and has now been in wellness care for over a year living her best life, traveling and eating what she wants!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor help with TMJ disorder?
Can a car accident cause TMJ problems?
Find Out What’s Going On
If jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or facial tension have become part of your daily routine, our team would love to help you get to the bottom of it. Contact Driven Wellness to schedule your evaluation at our office.
