TMJ Treatment Oakville

What is causing your jaw pain and TMJ?

Dr. Steve has been treating jaw pain and TMJ syndrome for over 17 years. Our Oakville chiropractor has developed his own specific treatment protocol for jaw pain over this time and helped 1000’s of patients with all types of jaw issues. Dr. Steve is one of the few therapists in Ontario who uses Shockwave Therapy to treat TMJ. We treat jaw pain patients from Milton and Burlington and Mississauga everyday. If you have been stuck on a google search of “jaw pain treatment near me” watch our TMJ treatment videos and see if we are the right fit for your jaw pain!

Our Oakville clinic focuses on the TMJ joint structure and the disc inside the jaw to improve complicated biomechanics and movements of the jaw and mouth. Compressive treatment on all the muscles groups that affect the jaw are performed after a specific diagnosis of what’s causing the patients TMJ

Patients searching for TMJ treatment near me or jaw pain treatment near Oakville often travel to our clinic because of our comprehensive treatment protocols including shockwave therapy, soft tissue therapy, and chiropractic treatment.

If your jaw pain is related to a workplace injury, learn how to start a WSIB claim and access approved treatment in Oakville. Jaw injuries and TMJ problems can sometimes develop after motor vehicle accidents due to impact or whiplash forces. Our car accident rehab Oakville program also treats TMJ symptoms that develop following collisions.

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TMJ Anatomy and Jaw Pain Explained (Video)

TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment Burlington and Milton

Dr. Steve Knighton takes a thorough and evidence-based approach to diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders and jaw pain. With nearly two decades of experience, he has helped countless patients find relief from discomfort and regain proper jaw function. Working on the TMJ structure he improves masseter muscle, temporalis muscle (main cause of headaches from TMJ), medial pterygoid muscle and lateral pterygoid. He also will work on the upper neck muscle groups to improve jaw mechanics.

As one of the few practitioners in Ontario utilizing shockwave therapy for TMJ conditions, Dr. Steve combines cutting-edge techniques with a holistic treatment plan. His approach includes assessing potential underlying issues in the neck and cervical spine that may contribute to jaw pain.

Additionally, he provides patients with simple yet effective at-home exercises to support their recovery and maintain long-term results.

Our Oakville clinic treats many TMJ and jaw pain patients from Milton, Burlington, and Mississauga who are searching for effective TMJ treatment near them.

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TMJ Treatment and Jaw Pain Relief (Video)

Jaw Clicking Treatment Oakville

Jaw clicking is one of the most common symptoms patients notice when experiencing temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). Many patients describe hearing or feeling a clicking or popping sound when opening their mouth, chewing, or yawning. While occasional clicking may not always cause pain, persistent jaw clicking often indicates that the temporomandibular joint is not moving smoothly within the joint socket.

In many cases, jaw clicking occurs when the small cartilage disc inside the temporomandibular joint becomes slightly misaligned. This can happen when tight jaw muscles, inflammation, or joint irritation prevent the jaw from moving normally. Muscles such as the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles can become tight from clenching, grinding, stress, or poor posture, which can pull the jaw slightly out of its normal movement pattern.

At Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre in Oakville, Dr. Steve evaluates both the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles to determine why the clicking is occurring. Treatment typically focuses on restoring proper movement in the jaw while reducing tension in the muscles that control jaw motion. This may include jaw muscle therapy, trigger point treatment, chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine, and targeted exercises to help stabilize the joint.

Many patients also have tight muscles in the upper neck that contribute to jaw dysfunction. When necessary, treatment may include gentle chiropractic care to the cervical spine along with soft tissue therapies that help relax the muscles affecting jaw movement.

Our Oakville clinic regularly treats patients experiencing jaw clicking and TMJ dysfunction from surrounding communities including Burlington, Milton, and Mississauga. By addressing both the joint mechanics and the surrounding muscle tension, treatment focuses on improving jaw function and reducing the clicking, discomfort, and tension associated with TMJ problems.

a meme of dr steve talking to a female patient about jaw pain. her jaw looks injured

Common TMJ Symptoms

  • clicking jaw

  • popping jaw

  • jaw locking

  • headaches

  • ear pain

  • difficulty chewing

  • tight jaw muscles

  • jaw pain

Graphic showing symptoms of TMJ

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders:

  • pain on both or one side of the jaw at the TMJ
  • general face/jaw pain, usually located just in front of the ear or lower portion of jaw
  • discomfort around the ear
  • clicking/cracking of the jaw that could be painful.
  • Problems opening your mouth completely. Might feel like it get’s stuck.
  • Headaches with tightness in your jaw area

Severe TMJ disorders can make it difficult to chew your food and sleeping may become painful. Some patients even complain of headaches and neck pain coming from their jaw.

What Our Patients Are saying

  • Starting seeing Dr Knighton for my frozen shoulder. Using Shockwave therapy along with cupping I am now able to reach over my head and I am pain free for the first time in 3 years. Thank you Dr Steve and all your great staff. I highly recommend!

    Susan N (Momsy) Avatar Susan N (Momsy)
    August 7, 2024

    Dr.Jenn is a very caring and skilled chiropractor. She has a gentle yet highly effective touch. I have been to her for two separate issues and both have resolved nicely. I would highly recommend her to anyone. The clinic staff are very friendly and helpful as well.

    Sandra Chiang Avatar Sandra Chiang
    June 7, 2024

    so good!!! the people are lovely and the service is so effective! felt results after session one!

    lilly montelongo Avatar lilly montelongo
    August 7, 2024

  • Steve and his team are absolutely amazing. Very efficient. Absolutely knowledgeable and corrected my issue Very quickly. Steve and team are so friendly and such positive high energy in the office. Love seeing everyone 💕

    Linda Paul Avatar Linda Paul
    December 7, 2024

    Dr. Stephen and his staff are amazing. I get my chiropractic treatments here.

    Steve W. Brown Avatar Steve W. Brown
    December 7, 2024

    I have had the pleasure of working with Vinaya at Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre over the last five months, and I can’t recommend her highly enough! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Vinaya took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly assessed... read more

    Jeff Barbosa Avatar Jeff Barbosa
    October 7, 2024

  • I was referred by another friend. Upon my arrival, I felt welcomed by the staff and without any delay, I was treated immediately. It gave me much reljef needed and I can recommend to snyone whk need similar treatment.

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    Rudolph Sequeira Avatar Rudolph Sequeira
    July 7, 2024

    Dr Steve and his staff are amazing. Love his high energy and enthusiasm. Have seen several Dr’s for my shoulder injury and Dr Steve is the only one that has fully explained what’s going on that made sense. Only had a few treatments but already noticing an improvement. Front desk... read more

    Steve & Angela Pinder Avatar Steve & Angela Pinder
    October 7, 2024

    Dr. Jenn is terrific and has helped me so much over the years. She is very progressive and uses many different methods (technology, acupuncture, tools) to go beyond traditional chiropractic and resolve issues (acute and chronic). I also like how her office direct bills my insurance for me. Highly recommend!

    Dr. Alison MacDougall Avatar Dr. Alison MacDougall
    November 7, 2024

What is the best treatment for jaw pain in Oakville – Milton – Burlington?

Dr. Steve utilizes evidence-based protocols and nearly two decades of experience to effectively treat jaw pain. Each year, he helps hundreds of TMJ patients in Oakville, providing both preventative care and post-surgical rehabilitation with great success.

While TMJ treatment can sometimes be uncomfortable, many patients experience noticeable improvement after just one session. Dr. Steve understands that most TMJ issues require more than just a new mouthguard, which is why he takes a comprehensive approach to address the root cause of jaw dysfunction and pain.

TMJ Treatment and Jaw Pain Relief Near Milton

Our Oakville clinic frequently treats patients from Milton experiencing jaw pain, clicking, and TMJ dysfunction. When you email the clinic, let us know you are coming from a distance and we will work extra hard to find an appointment time out of traffic and that works with your schedule.

TMJ Treatment Near Burlington

Patients from Burlington often visit our Oakville clinic for TMJ therapy and jaw pain treatment. Dr. Steve hates traffic more than anyone in the Halton region. If you are driving in from Burlington for TMJ or jaw pain treatment, let our staff know and we will work with you on QEW traffic for your travels to and from the clinic!

Now Offering Shockwave Treatment for TMJ Near Milton

4 Steps to Treating Jaw Pain

At our Oakville clinic, TMJ treatment focuses on reducing muscle tension, restoring proper jaw movement, and improving joint function using evidence-based therapies.

Step 1. Interferential Current Therapy For Jaw Pain (IFC)

We begin TMJ treatment with Interferential Current Therapy (IFC), a specialized electrical stimulation therapy designed to relieve pain and relax tense jaw muscles. Unlike other body parts where suction cups are used, jaw treatment requires adhesive pads directly placed on the face to ensure optimal contact.

While IFC typically feels like a deep tissue massage on larger muscles, jaw patients may experience subtle facial muscle twitches, eyelid movement, or tongue shifts—all completely normal and a sign the treatment is effectively targeting the right areas. During this session, patients also receive therapeutic heat therapy under the neck to address cervical spine dysfunction, which is often linked to TMJ issues.

 

a female patient with ifc sticky pads taped to her face for jaw pain treatment

Step 2. Shockwave Therapy for TMJ Oakville

Shockwave Therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for chronic jaw pain and muscle tightness. Dr. Steve utilizes a specialized shockwave applicator designed specifically for TMJ conditions, delivering 600 to 800 targeted pulses per side. This advanced therapy helps break down scar tissue, increase blood circulation, and reduce inflammation in the masseter and temporalis muscles. Whether its a painful jaw with chewing or a constant jaw clicking issue we have the treatment you need!

Many patients notice significant relief after just a few sessions, making Shockwave Therapy an excellent option for those struggling with persistent jaw discomfort. If you’re dealing with TMJ pain, let Dr. Steve and his team provide the expert care you need to restore function and relieve tension.

TMJ Treatment Near Mississauga

Many Mississauga patients travel to our Oakville clinic for comprehensive TMJ treatment and shockwave therapy. If you are coming from Mississauga for TMJ treatment at our clinic let us know so we can find a time that works with traffic and with your schedule. We are open almost every Saturday of the year so we can get you in with limited traffic if you are coming from North Mississauga or closer to Etobicoke with limited traffic. We all know how bad the Ford split can be coming from Mississauga at all times of the day!

female getting right jaw treated with shockwave, shockwave is a hand held pneumatic gun, hits 15 times a second for 90 seconds

Step 3. Active Release Therapy (ART) & Trigger Point Therapy For Jaw Pain Relief

Following Shockwave Therapy, Dr. Steve utilizes hands-on soft tissue techniques to release trigger points in the jaw and surrounding facial muscles. Through a combination of deep tissue work and precise manual adjustments, these therapies help improve jaw mobility, alleviate muscle tightness, and reduce tension headaches.

Active Release and trigger point therapy improves jaw mechanics and works great for treatment on clicking jaws and unusual jaw opening patterns. He works with his thumbs to release the muscles of the jaw including the masseter, temporalis and pterygoid muscles.

By targeting the root cause of discomfort, Dr. Steve’s comprehensive approach ensures long-lasting relief for TMJ sufferers. If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain or stiffness, his expert care can help restore function and get you back to feeling your best. If your traveling from Milton, Burlington or Mississauga let our staff know and we will find a time that works for you and traffic!

Dr Steve performing jaw muscle treatment for TMJ pain for a patient near Milton Ontario

Step 4. Chiropractic Neck Adjustments for TMJ Pain

Almost every TMJ patient we see at our Oakville clinic has some degree of cervical spine dysfunction contributing to their jaw pain. The temporomandibular joint does not work in isolation. It functions closely with the joints and muscles of the upper neck, particularly the C1, C2, and C3 vertebrae, along with surrounding muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, and suboccipital muscles. When these areas become tight, restricted, or irritated, they can contribute to jaw pain, facial tension, headaches, and limited jaw movement.

Many patients are surprised to learn that restricted motion in the cervical spine can directly affect how the jaw opens, closes, and moves side to side. Poor posture, prolonged computer use, stress-related muscle tension, previous injuries, and whiplash are all common causes of upper neck dysfunction that can place additional strain on the temporomandibular joint.

At Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre in Oakville, Dr. Steve carefully evaluates the relationship between the jaw and the cervical spine when assessing TMJ problems. If restricted joints in the upper neck are contributing to the patient’s symptoms, a gentle chiropractic neck adjustment may be performed to restore proper joint motion and reduce mechanical stress affecting the jaw.

Before any adjustment is performed, surrounding muscles are typically treated first using Active Release Techniques (ART), trigger point therapy, and other soft tissue treatments. Addressing the muscle tension beforehand allows the adjustment to be more comfortable and effective while helping restore normal muscle function around both the neck and jaw.

Many TMJ patients notice improvements not only in jaw pain but also in related symptoms such as headaches, neck stiffness, and facial muscle tension once the cervical spine begins moving normally again.

Our Oakville clinic regularly treats TMJ patients from Burlington, Milton, and Mississauga who are searching for effective TMJ treatment near them. By addressing both the jaw joint and the cervical spine together, treatment focuses on correcting the underlying biomechanical causes of TMJ dysfunction rather than simply managing symptoms.

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chiropractor adjusting a patients neck

Female patient receiving shockwave treatment for Jaw pain

How Does Shockwave Therapy Help With Jaw Pain?

Shockwave Therapy utilizes a pneumatic device that delivers controlled pulses to the surface of the skin at a rate of 15 times per second. This scientifically backed treatment helps break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and promote healing in the masseter and other smaller jaw muscles. The specialized applicator is placed on both sides of the jaw, delivering 600 to 800 targeted pulses per session. While mild discomfort and minimal bruising may occur, most treatments last only a few minutes, and patients often experience noticeable relief after just one or two visits—with up to 80% improvement in under 10 treatments.

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If you’re struggling with jaw pain, jaw clicking, lockjaw, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, or pain from teeth grinding, don’t wait—book your appointment today and start feeling better, faster. If your jaw issues are contributing to upper neck stiffness, back tension, or headaches, Dr. Steve will provide expert care or guide you toward the right specialist. Most TMJ disorder patients feel relief after just one visit, and 90% see an 80% improvement in under 10 sessions.

Why and How Shockwave Therapy Helps With TMJ

At Home Jaw Exercises for TMJ Pain!

At-Home TMJ Exercises & Jaw Stretchers

The most common at home exercise given by Dr. Steve for TMJ patients is the jaw cork stretch. It’s very basic and easy to do. Get a wine cork, cut it to size if needed, place it upright in-between your teeth and allow the cork to stretch your jaw. Hold stretch for 10 to 60 seconds and repeat 5 to 10 times a day.

TMJ at our Oakville clinic can be diagnosed without any diagnostic tests. If you do have an x-ray or MRI already, please bring in the report so our TMJ treating team can be further informed of your condition.

To maintain and enhance treatment results, we provide personalized home care recommendations. Dr. Steve often suggests simple jaw-stretching techniques using a wine cork—holding the stretch for 30 seconds, five times a day, and gradually increasing to 90 seconds, ten times a day. For patients who prefer a dedicated solution, dental jaw stretchers from Amazon are also recommended.

6 Signs of TMJ and what you can do to fix your jaw pain!

cork stretch for tmj

 

Here are some of Dr. Steve’s favourite at home exercises for jaw pain!

Can a chiropractor treat TMJ? Treatment options for TMJ in Oakville.

Doctor Steve’s treatment is never cookie cutter at our Oakville clinic, but there are some general guidelines we like to go by:

1. If treatment extends beyond the 8th visit without any substantial improvement in pain or Range of Motion Doctor Steve will ask his patient to visit their MD for a second opinion and possibly a set of X-rays or MRI of the Jaw. Most patients need between 6 and 12 visits for 80 percent improvement.

2. Treatment for jaw injuries also include:

A doctor performing hands on therapy for TMJ

A female patient receiving acupuncture treatment for TMJ pain

Acupuncture Treatment for TMJ and jaw pain?

Doctor Jenn is our resident acupuncture provider and treats all kinds of injuries with acupuncture including TMJ and lock jaw. If you are looking to get rid of chronic jaw pain and acupuncture is your thing, call the clinic today! Oakville acupuncture for TMJ!

Acupuncture can be an effective treatment option for patients experiencing TMJ pain, jaw tension, and facial muscle tightness. At our Oakville clinic, acupuncture treatments are provided by Dr. Jenn as part of a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment. The goal of acupuncture is to help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation to irritated tissues, and calm the nervous system, which can all contribute to relieving jaw pain and TMJ dysfunction.

TMJ problems often involve chronic tightness in the muscles surrounding the jaw, including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles. Stress, clenching, grinding, and poor posture can cause these muscles to become overactive, leading to jaw pain, headaches, and facial tension. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points that help relax these muscles and restore more normal muscle function around the jaw and neck.

Many TMJ patients also experience associated symptoms such as headaches, neck pain, and tension through the temples and face. Acupuncture treatments can help address these related symptoms by improving blood flow and reducing irritation in the surrounding muscles and connective tissues. When used alongside other treatments such as soft tissue therapy, jaw muscle work, and chiropractic care, acupuncture can play an important role in improving overall TMJ function.

At Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre in Oakville, Dr. Jenn often incorporates acupuncture into TMJ treatment plans to help reduce muscle tension and support the body’s natural healing response. Patients frequently report reduced jaw tightness, improved jaw movement, and decreased headache symptoms after treatment.

Our Oakville clinic regularly treats TMJ patients from Burlington, Milton, and Mississauga who are searching for effective TMJ treatment near them. Acupuncture can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive TMJ treatment program designed to reduce pain and restore normal jaw function.

TMJ Treatment and Jaw Pain FAQS