TMJ Treatment in Oakland, CA

Jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or clenching are common, but they are not something you have to live with.

At Riverstone Chiropractic in Oakland, we provide TMJ-focused treatment that looks beyond the jaw joint to address the full system involved in TMJ dysfunction.

What Is TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint—the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.

TMJ dysfunction occurs when this joint and the surrounding muscles are:

• Overloaded
• Poorly coordinated
• Irritated by tension, posture, or stress

TMJ dysfunction doesn’t always feel like jaw pain, which is why it’s often missed or misunderstood.

Common TMJ Symptoms

TMJ dysfunction may include:

• Jaw pain or stiffness
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds
• Headaches or migraines
• Facial pain or tightness
• Neck and shoulder tension
• Ear pressure, fullness, or ringing
• Clenching or grinding (especially at night)
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully

Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and they can change over time.

Why TMJ Pain Isn’t Just a Jaw Problem

The jaw does not work in isolation.

TMJ function is closely connected to:

• Neck mobility and muscle support
• Upper back posture
• Breathing mechanics
• Nervous system regulation
• Stress and load tolerance

If one part of this system is strained or under-supported, the jaw often compensates—leading to pain, clicking, or tension.

This is why TMJ treatment that focuses only on the jaw joint or teeth often falls short.

TMJ Evaluation at Riverstone Chiropractic (Oakland)

TMJ evaluation at Riverstone Chiropractic looks at the whole picture, not just one joint.

Your TMJ assessment may include:

• Jaw range of motion and coordination
• Muscle tone and tenderness (jaw, neck, face)
• Neck and upper back mobility
• Posture and movement patterns
• Breathing mechanics
• Symptom history and triggers

This helps us understand why your jaw is irritated, not just where it hurts.

TMJ Treatment Approach

TMJ treatment at Riverstone Chiropractic is gentle, supportive, and individualized.

Care may include:

• Hands-on manual therapy for jaw and neck muscles
• Gentle joint mobilization (non-forceful)
• Movement retraining
• Postural and breathing support
• Home exercises to reduce overload
• Education so you understand what’s happening

There is no aggressive forcing and no one-size-fits-all protocol.

What TMJ Treatment Usually Feels Like

TMJ recovery often happens gradually.

Early signs of improvement may include:

• Clicking becoming quieter or less frequent
• Reduced muscle tension
• Fewer headaches
• Less clenching awareness
• Easier jaw movement

Pain relief often follows improved control and reduced guarding.

TMJ Chiropractor vs. Dentist: Do I Need Both?

Dentists play an important role in TMJ care, particularly for:

• Dental health
• Bite protection
• Night guards

TMJ-focused chiropractic care complements dental care by addressing:

• Jaw and neck movement
• Muscle coordination
• Nervous system input
• Postural and mechanical contributors

Many people benefit most from collaborative care, not choosing one provider over another.

Who TMJ Treatment Is For?

TMJ treatment at Riverstone Chiropractic may be a good fit if you:

• Have jaw pain, clicking, or clenching
• Experience headaches or facial tension linked to jaw use
• Have tried dental appliances without full relief
• Want non-aggressive, movement-based care
• Are looking for TMJ treatment in Oakland

TMJ Care in Oakland, CA

Riverstone Chiropractic provides inclusive, patient-centered TMJ care in Oakland.

We work with people of all genders, sizes, and backgrounds, and we prioritize:

• Safety
• Education
• Autonomy
• Whole-body care

FAQs About TMJ Treatment in Oakland

Can a chiropractor help with TMJ dysfunction?

Yes. Chiropractors trained in TMJ care can help address jaw movement, muscle tension, neck involvement, and nervous system input that contribute to TMJ symptoms.

Does TMJ treatment hurt?

TMJ treatment is typically gentle. Care should not feel aggressive or forceful.

How long does TMJ treatment take?

This varies. Many people notice early changes within a few sessions, with continued improvement over time.

Do I need a referral for TMJ treatment?

No referral is required to receive chiropractic TMJ care in California.

Ready to Get Started?

If jaw pain, clicking, clenching, or headaches have been affecting your daily life, TMJ-focused care may help.

👉 Book a TMJ evaluation at Riverstone Chiropractic in Oakland