TMJ Therapy in Austin, TX

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Gentle, Integrative Care for Jaw Pain, Headaches & Facial Tension

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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can cause jaw pain, clicking or locking, headaches, facial pain, neck tension, and symptoms that radiate well beyond the jaw itself. At Art & Science Healing, TMJ care is approached as a whole-system issue, not just a jaw problem.

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TMJ therapy here focuses on the jaw, cervical spine, cranial structures, and nervous system patterns that contribute to chronic tension, irritation, and pain.  Treatment may include gentle, hands-on techniques — similar to massage — for the jaw, face, and neck, combined with craniosacral therapy and Frequency-Specific Microcurrent (FSM) to address the root causes of dysfunction.

 

What Is TMJ Dysfunction?

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TMJ dysfunction refers to irritation or impaired function of the temporomandibular joints and the surrounding muscles, fascia, nerves, and connective tissues. Contributing factors may include:

• Jaw clenching or teeth grinding

• Cervical spine tension or instability

• Head or neck injuries (including concussions)

• Dental or orthodontic history

• Chronic stress and nervous system overactivation

• Postural strain and airway compensation

 

Because the jaw is closely connected to the skull, neck, and nervous system, symptoms often persist unless these relationships are addressed together.

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Symptoms Commonly Associated With TMJ Dysfunction

 

TMJ-related symptoms may include:

• Jaw pain, clicking, popping, or locking

• Headaches or migraines

• Facial pain or pressure

• Ear pain, fullness, or ringing

• Neck and shoulder tension

• Pain with chewing or speaking

• Teeth sensitivity without dental cause

 

TMJ symptoms frequently overlap with headaches, chronic neck pain, and nervous system sensitization.

 

How TMJ Is Treated at Art & Science Healing

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TMJ therapy is gentle, precise, and individualized. Care may include:

• Craniosacral therapy to address cranial and jaw tension

• Manual therapy for jaw muscles, fascia, and cervical spine

• Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) to calm irritated tissues and nerves

• Nervous system regulation strategies to reduce clenching and guarding

 

Rather than forcing joint movement, treatment focuses on reducing protective tension, improving coordination, and supporting balanced function.

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TMJ, Headaches & the Nervous System

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TMJ dysfunction is often maintained by heightened nervous system tone. Stress, chronic clenching, and pain sensitization can keep the jaw in a guarded state even after the original trigger has resolved.

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By addressing both mechanical strain and nervous system patterns, TMJ therapy here supports longer-lasting relief and improved comfort.

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What to Expect During a TMJ Session

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TMJ sessions are calm and non-forceful. Treatment may involve gentle contact at the jaw, face, head, and neck. Many clients notice reduced jaw tension, improved ease of movement, and decreased headache intensity over time.

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TMJ care is often integrated with craniosacral therapy or FSM as part of a comprehensive approach.

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TMJ Therapy in Austin, Texas

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Art & Science Healing provides TMJ therapy in Austin, TX for individuals seeking thoughtful, whole-system care for jaw pain, headaches, and facial tension. All sessions are one-on-one and delivered by Dr. Summer, a chiropractor and registered nurse with over 20 years of clinical experience.

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TMJ therapy may be appropriate as a standalone service or as part of a broader care plan.

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TMJ FAQ

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Do you treat TMJ without dental appliances or mouth guards?

Yes. TMJ care at Art & Science Healing does not rely on dental appliances or mouth guards. Sessions focus on reducing jaw and neck muscle tension using gentle, hands-on techniques similar to massage, improving coordination between the jaw, head, and neck, and addressing nervous system patterns that contribute to clenching, guarding, or pain. Some clients may still use dental appliances elsewhere, but they are not required for effective care here.

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Is TMJ therapy painful?

No. TMJ therapy is gentle and non-forceful. Most clients experience it as calming, massage-like work that gradually relieves tension in the jaw, face, and neck. Over time, this approach often reduces discomfort, improves jaw mobility, and eases associated symptoms such as headaches or neck tension — without the soreness sometimes experienced with deeper, aggressive massage.

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How is your TMJ care different from typical TMJ treatment? 

TMJ therapy here is approached as a whole-system issue rather than a jaw-only problem. Care may include craniosacral therapy, gentle manual work, and Frequency-Specific Microcurrent (FSM) when appropriate, with attention to the nervous system and cervical spine. This integrative approach is especially helpful for people whose symptoms persist despite conventional or dental-based TMJ care.

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Schedule an Appointment

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If you are experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or TMJ-related symptoms, you may schedule an appointment to discuss whether TMJ therapy is appropriate for you.