Gentle TMJ Treatment in Ocean View, DE
Jaw pain, clicking, tightness, and headaches near the temples are often blamed on the jaw alone. But the jaw joint, called the temporomandibular joint or TMJ, works closely with the top of your neck. The atlas, the first bone of the spine, sits just behind and below the jaw.
When the atlas shifts out of alignment, the muscles that control your head position and your bite can be pulled off balance, which may add strain to the jaw joint. At Ocean View Migraine and Chiropractic Center in Ocean View, DE, we look at how your upper neck and jaw work together so your care addresses more than just the symptoms.
Common TMJ Symptoms
TMJ problems can show up in many different ways. Patients often come to us with one or more of the following:
- Jaw pain or soreness, especially when chewing
- Clicking, popping, or grinding in the jaw
- Limited ability to open your mouth fully
- Headaches near the temples or behind the eyes
- Ear pain, fullness, or ringing with no clear ear cause
- Neck and shoulder tension
If these symptoms sound familiar, an upper cervical evaluation can help determine whether your neck alignment may be playing a role.
How Atlas Orthogonal Care May Help
Dr. Kyle DePollar uses the Atlas Orthogonal Technique, a gentle and precise upper cervical adjustment. Instead of twisting or cracking, a percussive sound wave instrument restores the atlas to its proper position.
Many patients with jaw tension find that once the upper neck is balanced, the muscles around the jaw are able to relax and function more normally. Because the adjustment is low-force, it is a comfortable option for people who are sensitive to traditional chiropractic methods.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first appointment includes a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, posture, and upper neck alignment. Dr. DePollar takes the time to understand how jaw pain or tension affects your daily life, then builds a care plan around your specific goals.
Adjustments are quick and comfortable, with no cracking or popping. Many of our TMJ patients work alongside their dentist or TMJ specialist, and upper cervical care can be a helpful part of that team approach.
Schedule a TMJ Evaluation
Jaw pain, clicking, and tension headaches do not have to be part of your everyday routine. If you are looking for a gentle, non-invasive approach, Ocean View Migraine and Chiropractic Center is here to help.
Call us at 302-319-5111 or book online to schedule your evaluation with Delaware’s only CCAO-certified Atlas Orthogonal chiropractor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my neck really affect my jaw?
Yes. The jaw and upper neck are closely connected through shared muscles and nerves. When the atlas is out of alignment, it can change head posture and muscle balance, which may add strain to the jaw joint.
Does the TMJ adjustment hurt?
No. The Atlas Orthogonal adjustment is gentle and low-force, with no twisting, cracking, or popping. Most patients feel little more than light pressure behind the ear.
Can I keep seeing my dentist or TMJ specialist?
Yes. Many of our TMJ patients continue working with their dentist or TMJ specialist. Upper cervical care can be a helpful part of a team approach to jaw pain.
How many visits will I need?
Every patient responds differently. Some notice changes after only a few visits, while others benefit from ongoing care. Dr. DePollar will recommend a plan based on your evaluation and goals.
