Our bodies are made up of intricate systems functioning together in harmony, and when one part is compromised, it can affect the entire body. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is no exception. The TMJ is a complex joint that connects the lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull, and when it’s out of balance, the entire body can suffer. TMJ pain arises when the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments around your jaw are out of balance or not in sync. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe chronic pain if left untreated.
TMJ affects more than 10 million people in the United States alone and can affect anyone at any age. It is more common among women than men and can become more common with age. This is due to the gradual wear and tear that occurs with age and other factors related to lifestyle habits.
The jaw comprises two joints, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the mandibular joint (MJ). The TMJ is responsible for the movement of the jaw, while the MJ assists with proper jaw alignment and stability. When both joints are working in harmony, the jaw will function correctly. When one of these joints becomes irritated due to an injury, poor posture, or other causes, it can cause the jaw to become misaligned and lead to temporomandibular joint pain.
The surrounding facial muscles become tense and painful as the muscles work harder to stabilize the misaligned jaw. This pain leads to further complications such as headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and even earaches.
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How Our Care Plan Works
1. Finally Be Heard
At our office, your story matters. We take the time to truly listen, understand what you’re going through, and learn how it’s affecting your daily life. You’re not rushed or overlooked here—you’re treated like family, and your concerns are always taken seriously.
2. Finally Get Clear Answers
Health issues can be frustrating when you don’t know what’s really going on. We believe patients deserve clear, honest explanations. We walk you through what we’re seeing, what it means, and the best options to help you move forward with confidence.
3. Finally Get Lasting Results
Our goal isn’t just temporary relief—it’s helping you feel better for the long run. By focusing on the root of the problem and creating personalized care plans, we help patients regain strength, mobility, and the ability to enjoy everyday life again.
How We Treat TMJ Dysfunction In Natrona Heights, PA
Comprehensive Consultation and Exam
Our expert practitioners will discuss your symptoms in detail during your consultation and observe how you move your jaw and neck. During the consultation, our practitioners will also assess your posture, bite, and range of motion. This is to determine the cause of your temporomandibular joint pain and develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
If necessary, we may also take X-rays. X-rays give us an accurate picture of the structures inside your jaw and help us determine the best treatment for you.
Specific Chiropractic Care in Natrona Heights, PA
Our chiropractors will use various techniques to help realign the jaw and reduce tension. These may include adjusting the jaw joint, applying pressure to trigger points, stretching, and mobilizing the surrounding muscles.
If they choose to adjust the joint, they will use a light force to move it into its correct position gently without cracking or popping the jaw. The method used will depend on the severity of your condition and what is causing it. Our chiropractors will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that will help you reduce your pain and improve your jaw function.
They may then recommend exercises or stretches to help keep the jaw in its correct position. Stretching and mobilizing the muscles around the jaw is also important for restoring the jaw’s normal range of motion. This can help to reduce tension and pain, as well as improve overall function.
Trigger point relief soft tissue work can help reduce muscle tension and relieve pain. Our chiropractors will use their hands to apply pressure to these knots, which will help release the built-up tension and reduce inflammation.
Massage
Our massage therapists will use various techniques to relieve tension and reduce pain. This may include deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release. Massage can help to relax the muscles around the jaw and help to reduce stress in the body, which can contribute to temporomandibular joint pain. Massage can help reduce pain and improve joint mobility.
Deep Tissue Laser
Deep tissue laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw. It targets specific areas of the jaw with a low-level laser to reduce tension and inflammation. Laser therapy can also help improve the range of motion in the jaw, reducing pain and improving function.
During the procedure, our practitioners will apply the laser to specific jaw areas for 10-15 minutes. The laser helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain and stiffness in the jaw.
Laser penetrates the cellular level, stimulating the mitochondria to accelerate healing. The benefits of laser therapy can be almost immediately, and it can provide long-term relief from TMJ pain.
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Samantha Bennett
March 26, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Dawn and her staff are wonderful. They always answer any question I may have and are time efficient with any situation at hand.
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March 26, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very thorough, listened to my concerns, and told me what they plan to do to help me.
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March 25, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff and the Dr's always treat me with warmth and total care. They never fail to straighten me out... forgive the pun. Can you dig it? I knew that you could.
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March 24, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Allegheny Health and Physical Medicine is the best! Adjustments keep me from getting monthly migraines. Dr. Dawn Helps me feel my best all the time!!
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March 24, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have graduated into the maintenance phase of my treatment.. I am PLEASED with the results I am receiving 😊 Thank you Dr. MJ They are wheelchair accessible 👨🦽
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John Mango
March 23, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr MJ did I thorough examination to understand my past history, adjusted the areas that needed attention and suggested a good preventive care program
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Johnelle Wood
March 23, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Call and get yourself scheduled immediately if you are suffering with neck and/or back issues! The plans set forth by this group of doctors will not only help rehabilitate you to a better condition, they will help to structure a plan to move you forward with wellness to maintain your improvements, building closer to ultimate health.
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March 20, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Dawn is a great person and Dr. Very caring and remembers you even if you have not been there in 6 weeks!
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March 20, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Jalloul has been a tremendous help in keeping my persistant back pain at bay. I have been seeing him for the better part of year now and it has been a great experience to work with someone who truly cares about your well being.
Common Causes of TMJ Dysfunction in Natrona Heights, PA
Teeth Clenching
When you clench or grind your teeth, your jaw is forced into an unnatural position, causing excess pressure on the temporomandibular joint leading to pain and inflammation. The extra pressure can also cause the jaw to become misaligned, leading to further pain and discomfort.
Poor Posture
The neck muscles connect to the jaw muscles. When one is tense, the other will become tense. That means poor posture that triggers neck and shoulder tension can lead to jaw tension and pain.
Arthritis
Arthritis can misalign the jaw, leading to swelling and inflammation. This can also cause additional stress on the temporomandibular joint, leading to more pain. In some cases, the joint can become so damaged that it needs to be replaced.
Stress
When we are stressed, it can cause us to clench and grind our teeth, leading to temporomandibular joint pain. It can also cause us to tense our muscles, leading to jaw tension and discomfort. The constant stress can also lead to headaches and neck pain.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction in Natrona Heights, PA
Jaw Pain
Your jaw may feel sore and tender, or there may be a sharp pain when you move it. This pain is similar to the pain of an earache. It might be worse on one side or felt on both sides of your jaw.
Jaw Popping or Clicking
You may hear or feel a popping or clicking sensation when you open your mouth. This can be caused by the jaw joint becoming misaligned or by a buildup of muscle tension. It can be accompanied by pain or stiffness.
Lockjaw
Muscle tension can lock your jaw in one position and will not move. This symptom is usually accompanied by pain or discomfort. Sometimes, the only way to unlock your jaw is with help from a doctor or physical therapist.
Jaw Clenching
You are often unaware that you are clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth. It can be a sign of stress or anxiety and cause pain in the jaw and face. It can also lead to headaches and other TMJ symptoms.
Difficulty Chewing
A misalignment of the jaw or tightness in the muscles can make it difficult to open your mouth wide enough to chew food properly. This symptom is usually accompanied by pain or discomfort.
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1007 Freeport Rd, Natrona Heights, PA 15065
612 S Pike Rd Suite 105, Sarver, PA 16055
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chiropractic care help with TMJ?
Yes, chiropractic care can help to reduce pain and improve function in the jaw. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat various conditions, including temporomandibular joint pain. They can use multiple techniques, such as spinal manipulation, to reduce tension in the jaw and improve the range of motion. They can also recommend lifestyle changes and exercises to help with temporomandibular joint pain.
How do you permanently fix TMJ?
TMJ is a complex condition, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments, such as chiropractic care, massage, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
What causes TMJ to flare up?
TMJ can result from various factors, such as grinding your teeth, jaw misalignment, stress or anxiety, and arthritis. It can also be triggered by a traumatic event such as whiplash, an injury to the face, and even certain medications or medical conditions. If you do not treat the underlying cause, your symptoms may continue to flare up.
What happens if TMJ is left untreated?
If temporomandibular joint pain is left untreated, it can lead to long-term problems such as chronic pain, difficulty eating and speaking, and jaw deformities. It can also lead to other health problems, such as headaches, earaches, and neck pain.
Can chiropractors crack jaws?
Chiropractors can safely manipulate the temporomandibular joint to improve range of motion and decrease pain.
Can TMJ cause neurological problems?
In rare cases, temporomandibular joint pain can cause neurological problems such as facial numbness, facial paralysis, and difficulty swallowing. These only occur when temporomandibular joint pain causes severe damage to the facial nerves. They may also occur if temporomandibular joint pain is left untreated for an extended period.
$49 New Patient Special
Includes Full detailed medical history, Orthopedic Testing, Neurological Testing, Digital X-ray, Supplement Review, Pain-relieving treatment & Complimentary x-ray/MRI review