Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction affects millions of people, causing jaw pain, clicking, headaches, and even affecting bite alignment. The TMJ is intimately connected to the cervical spine, and many cases of TMJ pain have a chiropractic component. Dr. Cayer's approach addresses both the jaw mechanics and the surrounding structural and neurological factors.
Common Symptoms
Understanding the Anatomy
The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. When this joint becomes misaligned or the surrounding muscles (masseter, pterygoid) become overactive, it causes pain, clicking, limited opening, and referred pain to the head and ears.
How We Treat It
TMJ & Cranial Adjustments
Precise corrections to the jaw and cranial bones to restore proper joint mechanics.
Cervical Realignment
Upper cervical misalignments are a major contributor to TMJ dysfunction.
Trigger Point Neutralization
Releases masseter and pterygoid muscle tension driving jaw pain.
Acupuncture
Effectively reduces local inflammation and neurological hypersensitivity in the jaw.
Patient Success Story
Diane P.
42 years old · Real Estate Agent
The Problem
Diane's jaw started clicking one morning while eating breakfast. Over the next few months, the clicking turned into pain — sharp, stabbing pain when she chewed or yawned. She began avoiding foods that required much chewing. Her dentist made her a night guard for grinding, which helped slightly, but the daytime pain persisted. She also developed chronic headaches and a ringing in her left ear that her ENT couldn't explain.
The Outcome
Dr. Cayer found that Diane had both TMJ misalignment and upper cervical dysfunction that was driving her jaw muscles into constant tension. He performed gentle cranial and TMJ adjustments, released the masseter trigger points, corrected her neck alignment, and used acupuncture on her jaw. Within 3 weeks, the clicking stopped. Within 6 weeks, her headaches and ear ringing were gone. She can now eat anything she wants without pain.
Before & After: Patient Progress
Photos shared with written patient consent. Names are initials only to protect privacy.
D.P.
40s · 14 visits · 6 weeks
Before
Week 1 — Cannot open mouth more than 2 fingers width
After
Week 6 — Full mouth opening, no clicking or pain
TMJ clicking, jaw pain, and related tinnitus fully resolved.
R.N.
30s · 12 visits · 8 weeks
Before
Week 1 — Severe bruxism, jaw sore every morning
After
Week 8 — No overnight clenching, jaw relaxed
Bruxism reduced 90%. Headaches from clenching eliminated.
Drag the divider left and right to compare before and after results. Results are real patients treated at Dr. Cayer's Newtown, CT office.
What Our Patients Say
“My migraine headaches which have plagued me for life have almost completely disappeared and the few that I have had are much less severe. Nothing that I tried in the past would relieve me of my headache — I truly believe in my chiropractor. Dr. Cayer is extraordinary.”
“I can finally sleep through the night. My daily aches and pains are significantly reduced. My daily headaches have vanished. I feel taller and just healthier in general. I am grateful that chiropractic care could help save my quality of life.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Dr. Cayer for TMJ Symptoms
Gentle cranial and jaw mobilization techniques
Addresses cervical spine contribution to TMJ pain
Releases masseter and pterygoid muscle tension
Experience with complex cases including tinnitus and ear pain