Last Reviewed by: Dr. Steve Knighton | March 15, 2026
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.
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.
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.
Common TMJ Symptoms
clicking jaw
popping jaw
jaw locking
headaches
ear pain
difficulty chewing
tight jaw muscles
jaw pain
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
Awesome experience. Very welcoming and always left feeling rejuvenated
John Stones July 7, 2024
I was initially reluctant to try another chiropractor after a series of bad experiences that left me in more pain. However, my husband visited Dr. Steve at Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre following a scary knee injury and had nothing but amazing things to say about his care. He booked me... read more an appointment, and I've been looking forward to my sessions ever since. I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service from the staff, who assist every step of the way, provide thorough follow-ups, and patiently answer every question I have. Dr. Steve is the most professional and knowledgeable chiropractor I've ever encountered. He takes the time to explain the process every step of the way and builds a relationship of trust with each patient, ensuring you leave feeling better. I was so impressed with the improvement in my back pain after just one session that I encouraged my teenage children to book sessions with Dr. Steve as well. One has an ankle injury from basketball, and the other has a shoulder injury from work. Both are more committed to their sessions more than anything else and have experienced significant improvement. Dr. Steve excels not only during treatments but also in providing detailed and thorough follow-up instructions. This morning, after a wrong move, I injured my back and had difficulty walking. I called Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre to see if I could see Dr. Steve urgently due to the pain. They booked me an appointment and stayed open past their closing time to accommodate me. I entered the clinic barely walking and left feeling ready to rock and roll (though I won't!). I couldn't be more grateful. Thank you, Dr. Steve, and the whole Nottinghill team, for being so wonderful! Ingy
Ingy ES September 7, 2024
Great clinic. Pain free after few visits.
Mario M February 6, 2025
Dr. Jenn thank you for all the years looking after our family, you are nothing short of a miracle worker. Always refer friends to your practice, sorry we are moving, you will be missed. Audrey, thank you for always accommodating us on short notice and following up, lifesaver. ... read more Wishing you all continued success in all you do, good health and happiness.
Shona Mindzak December 7, 2024
I’ve been seeing Dr. Steve for the past few months, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the care and attention I’ve received. From the very first visit, Dr. Steve took the time to thoroughly assess my concerns and explain the treatment plan in detail. I’ve struggled with neck pain... read more and knee cracking noises for a few months now and after just a few sessions, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my mobility and comfort. The office is welcoming and professional, and the staff is always friendly and accommodating. I also appreciate the focus on long-term wellness and prevention, not just immediate relief. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, caring chiropractor who takes the time to listen and provides effective treatments, I highly recommend Dr. Steve. You won’t be disappointed!
Anjana Bhaskaran December 10, 2024
Love Dr. Steve and the staff. Everyone is great and helpful and efficient and you don’t feel rushed or just a number. They take time to listen to you. Laura (the one with the kind eyes) is just the best. She explains the machines really well and is easy to... read more talk to. Also love that they deal directly with insurance.
Kiran Chauhan July 7, 2024
Really great service! Dr. Steven is very humorous and treats all your issues. The staffs are all super friendly and will check up on your health regularly. Overall very enjoyable experience.
Crystal Zhao February 13, 2025
Dr. Steve is the coolest guy ever. He was so kind and communicative to me. My first experience ever going to a chiropractor and I was very nervous because physical contact makes me anxious. He talked me through everything, asked permission before every position and checked in on my comfort... read more level often. Very professional and fun guy, highly highly recommend his services. He’s also super honest and good at what he does as well. He’s going to be direct in correcting activity that contributes to your pain. I left feeling mentally and physically super cared for. Very refreshing health care services
Katie Chris February 6, 2025
I have been struggling with De Quervain’s for over 9 months and found Dr. Steve on YouTube a few weeks ago. Cannot recommend this clinic enough, if you have any wrist/thumb mobility issues they will help you! After 3 weeks of treatment here I can finally say I feel better... read more and more positive, thank you! 🫶
Aleksia Petrov June 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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
How do I know I have TMJ?
What is TMJ disease?
Do you treat TMJ patients from Milton, Burlington, or Mississauga?
What is the best treatment for jaw pain?
Who can help treat my jaw pain or TMJ?
Is TMJ a permanent condition?
What is the best treatment for TMJ?
Can TMJ or jaw pain cause headaches?
How did I suddenly develop TMJ?
TMJ is a general term jaw pain. The pain can be all the time, sleeping, chewing, talking, cold weather, when you eat certain food or drink caffeine. Usually the pain is on one side of the jaw and there is a change in jaw opening tracking or a inablity to open the jaw all the way.
TMJ disease is a problem with your jaw. It does not have to be painful, but usually is. It usually inovles a lateral motion of the lower jaw and an inability to open the jaw all the way.
Yes. Many patients travel to our Oakville clinic for TMJ treatment from nearby communities including Milton, Burlington, and Mississauga. Our clinic offers advanced TMJ therapies including shockwave therapy, soft tissue treatment, and chiropractic care for jaw pain.
The best treatment for TMJ or jaw pain is a combination of Active Release Therapy, Trigger Point Therapy and Shockwave Therapy.
Many practitioners can help with jaw pain. Most dentists will prescribe a night guard. While chiropractors and physiotherapists will provide manual treatment, exercises and shockwave therapy.
No, unless it doesn’t get treated and the TMJ becomes so bad that surgery is needed.
The best treatment for TMJ is a combination of treatment on both the jaw, neck and cervical spine. Treatment for TMJ should include IFC, trigger point therapy, shockwave and stretching exercises.
Yes, many TMJ patients complain of both tension headaches and migraine headaches. Some headache patients do not even realize their headaches are coming from their jaw.
TMJ can be causes by a sudden impact, muscle tension, stress, nerve issues or numerous other conditions. Please seek treatment early from a TMJ specialist to rule out an catastrophic issues.
