Pain, clicking or tightness in the jaw can affect your ability to eat, speak and relax. We help restore normal function and reduce discomfort.
Jaw pain is often related to the temporomandibular joint, also known as the TMJ. This joint connects your jaw to your skull and is involved in speaking, chewing and facial expression.
Pain in this area may come from joint dysfunction, muscle tension, clenching, grinding, or past injury. It may also contribute to other symptoms such as headaches, neck stiffness or facial pain.
This group of conditions is known as temporomandibular disorders, or TMD, and it affects up to one in ten people. It is more common in women and often appears between the ages of twenty and fifty.
People experiencing jaw or orofacial pain may report:
Pain in the jaw, cheek, temple or neck
Clicking, popping or locking when opening or closing the mouth
Stiffness or tightness around the jaw or upper neck
Headaches that start near the jaw or ear
Difficulty chewing, speaking or opening the mouth fully
Facial tension or pain during stressful periods
We begin with a full case history to understand when your symptoms began, what may be aggravating them, and how they impact your daily life.
Physical assessment focuses on jaw movement, muscle balance, posture and neck function. We also look for signs of clenching or grinding and assess how the jaw is working in relation to the head and neck.
If you have seen other providers or completed imaging, we take that into account when forming a clear diagnosis and plan of care.
Osteopathic treatment for jaw pain often includes soft tissue techniques for the face, neck and jaw, gentle mobilisation of the joint, and education around habits that may be contributing to discomfort.
We may also recommend stretches, jaw awareness exercises or techniques to help reduce tension. Our approach is always tailored to your symptoms and comfort level.
Many people with jaw pain benefit from a combination of hands on treatment and practical strategies they can use at home.
If jaw pain is getting in the way of eating, speaking or sleeping, we can help you get to the root of the issue and find relief.
