TMJ Pain After Auto Injury in Keller, TX
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, can be injured in a car accident, leading to temporomandibular disorder (TMD). During a collision, the jaw and neck absorb tremendous shearing forces that stress the joint, muscles, and ligaments supporting the region. At Performance Chiropractic Clinic, Dr. Dennis James evaluates the jaw and neck together and uses gentle, precise care to restore balanced function.
The Link Between Whiplash and Jaw Pain
The jaw and upper neck are intimately connected through shared muscles, nerves, and movement patterns. Research suggests a meaningful percentage of people with whiplash also develop jaw dysfunction, which is why it is important to examine your cervical spine along with the surrounding structures, such as the TMJ, after an auto accident.
Symptoms of TMD may include:
- Pain and tenderness at the joint or in front of the ear, often worse with jaw movement
- Popping or clicking of the joint
- Pain when eating, especially chewy foods
- Headaches
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness
How We Evaluate and Care for Post-Accident TMJ Pain
Upon consultation, Dr. James takes a thorough history and performs an examination that may include physical and orthopedic testing, digital X-rays, and functional and neurological testing of every area related to your accident. If your evaluation suggests a fracture, dislocation, or dental injury, we will coordinate referral to the appropriate provider.
Because TMJ problems often stem from both the jaw and the neck, care may include gentle chiropractic and Zone Healing for the cervical spine and jaw, needle-less acupuncture to calm overactive muscles, and red light therapy to support tissue healing. Learn more in our TMJ pain resource and our neck pain after auto injury page.
TMJ Pain After an Accident FAQs
Can a car accident cause TMJ problems?
Yes. The same forces that cause whiplash can strain the jaw joint, muscles, and ligaments, leading to TMJ pain and dysfunction.
Why does my jaw click after my accident?
Clicking or popping can occur when injury disrupts the normal movement of the joint and its cartilage disc.
Can TMJ problems cause headaches or ear symptoms?
Yes. TMJ dysfunction is commonly associated with headaches, ear pain, ringing in the ears, and dizziness.
Why do you examine my neck for jaw pain?
The jaw and upper neck share muscles and nerves, so neck dysfunction after an accident often contributes to jaw pain.
Is TMJ treatment gentle?
Yes. Dr. James uses precise, low-force techniques and needle-less acupuncture that are comfortable for a sensitive jaw.
Will I need to see a dentist?
If your evaluation suggests a dental injury, fracture, or bite problem, we will refer you to the appropriate provider.
Relieve Jaw Pain After an Accident
Call Performance Chiropractic Clinic at (817) 337-3636 to schedule your consultation with Dr. James in Keller, TX .