Jaw & Orofacial Pain Treatment
About Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a flexible, rotating and sliding joint comprised of a ball-shaped condyle covered in fibrocartilage, a fibrous disc, and a socket lined with fibrocartilage (fossa). It also includes ligaments, tendons, blood vessels, and nerves. The fibrous disc acts as a shock absorber and stabilizer, allowing smooth movement between the condyle and the fossa. When you open your jaw, the condyle rotates and slides forward along with the disc.
THE MUSCLES OF MASTICATION
The muscles responsible for chewing, known as the muscles of mastication, connect the mandible (lower jaw) to the maxillae (upper jaw), as well as to the skull and neck. These muscles control various movements of the jaw, including opening, closing, protruding, and shifting side to side, which are essential for speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Additionally, the neck and shoulder muscles support and stabilize the skull on the neck during these jaw functions.
TMD SYMPTOMS
- Headaches (tension or migraine)
- Pain behind the eyes or blurring of vision
- Unexplained tooth pain
- Earaches, congestion or ringing in ears
- Clicking, popping or grating sound in the jaw joints
- Limited opening or locking of the jaw
- Dizziness
- Pain when chewing
- Facial pain and/or numbness of face and head
- Neck and/or throat pain
- Difficulty in closing the teeth together
- Tired jaw
- Hearing loss
TMD CAUSES
- Poor posture
- Neck and upper back restriction, tight facial/mouth muscles/myofascial trigger points
- Trauma or whiplash
- Your teeth and your bite
- Clenching or grinding
- Mouth breathing
- Parafunctional habits: nail biting, frowning, chewing on pencils, etc.
What conditions can cause jaw and orofacial pain?
Jaw and orofacial pain can come from several structures, not just the TMJ itself. Pain may arise from the jaw joints, the muscles of mastication, the cervical spine, surrounding nerves, teeth, sinuses, salivary glands, or other nearby tissues. That is why a proper assessment is important before starting treatment.
Common causes and contributors may include:
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMD)
- Jaw muscle pain and myofascial trigger points
- Clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Disc derangement within the TMJ
- Jaw joint degeneration or inflammation
- Neck dysfunction referring pain into the face or jaw
- Postural strain and mouth breathing
- Trauma, including whiplash or previous concussion
- Dental and bite-related overload
- Headache disorders that overlap with jaw pain
What does a TMJ and orofacial pain assessment include?
What to Expect During Your Assessment
At The JawSpine Centre, your assessment is designed to identify the true source of your symptoms rather than focusing only on where the pain is felt.
Your examination may include:
- A detailed health and symptom history
- Review of jaw pain, locking, clicking, headaches, ear symptoms, and facial pain
- Assessment of jaw opening, closing, deviation, and range of motion
- Palpation of the TMJ and muscles of mastication
- Examination of the neck and upper back for contributing dysfunction
- Posture and breathing pattern assessment
- Screening for nerve-related symptoms and other non-musculoskeletal causes
- Review of any available dental imaging or reports
- Referral recommendations when advanced imaging or dental/oral surgery evaluation is needed
Signs you should get your jaw pain assessed
When You Should Seek an Assessment
You should consider a professional evaluation if you have:
- Jaw pain that does not improve
- Clicking, popping, or grinding with pain
- Limited opening or a jaw that locks
- Pain when chewing or yawning
- Morning jaw soreness or facial tension
- Frequent headaches with clenching or grinding
- Ear symptoms with no clear ear infection
- Neck pain that seems connected to your jaw symptoms
- A history of trauma to the head, face, or neck
- Ongoing symptoms despite using a night guard
Our Approach to Jaw & Orofacial Pain Treatment
Treatment is individualized based on the findings of your assessment. Depending on your presentation, your care plan may include:
- Myofascial release for the muscles of mastication and surrounding tissues
- Jaw joint mobilization and manual therapy when appropriate
- Neck and upper back treatment to address contributing dysfunction
- Postural correction and head-neck-jaw stabilization strategies
- Neuromuscular re-education and targeted home exercises
- Guidance on clenching, grinding, and parafunctional habit reduction
- Adjunctive therapies such as acupuncture, TENS, ultrasound, or laser therapy when clinically appropriate
- Co-management or referral to dental, medical, or oral surgery providers when needed
When a Referral May Be Recommended
Not all jaw and facial pain should be managed conservatively without further investigation. In some cases, referral for dental evaluation, medical assessment, oral surgery consultation, or advanced imaging may be appropriate.
Referral may be considered when there is:
- Significant limitation in opening
- Progressive swelling
- Trauma-related symptoms
- Persistent numbness or altered sensation
- Suspected structural joint changes
- Symptoms not responding as expected
- Concern for non-musculoskeletal causes of pain
FAQ
Chiropractic care, performed by a licensed TMJ chiropractor, is well recognized as an effective and conservative treatment for musculoskeletal disorders such as TMD and CFP. Chiropractic care aids in identifying and reducing contributing factors to musculoskeletal problems, reduces inflammation, restores function and promotes repair and regeneration of injured tissues.
Myofascial release and massage to involved tissues
Modalities: ultrasound, tens, iontophoresis, laser light, etc.
Joint manipulation/mobilization
Spinal-head-jaw and tongue posture training
Neuromuscular reduction and exercises
Craniosacral therapy
Kyle Dooley
16:54 11 Apr 26
Great clean environment, professional and friendly staff. Dr. Jafari is very good at what he does and helped improve my TMJ significantly. Would recommend to any jaw pain sufferers.
Berkin
19:14 10 Apr 26
The best clinic around.
Joel Hunley
08:57 23 Mar 26
I visited The JawSpine Centre because I experienced chronic neck stiffness that did not improve with routine stretching. They took a different strategy from the start, looking at how everything was connected. The sessions were thorough and not rushed. I enjoyed how well they described each process. After a few visits, my movement felt better, and the stiffness decreased significantly.
brittney brown
20:19 13 Mar 26
Helped a lot with my TMJ
Ambar Martinez
16:28 07 Mar 26
Dr. Jafari has been incredibly helpful with my jaw and back issues. I’ve seen noticeable improvement since starting treatment, and I really appreciate how attentive and knowledgeable he is. Very grateful for his care.
Royston Tellis
20:55 17 Jan 26
I have been dealing with TMJ and neck issues for almost two years, and honestly it takes a huge toll on you physically and mentally. I did not even realize how connected everything was until I started treatment at JawSpine Centre, Toronto. My jaw feels so much better, my neck tension has eased, and what surprised me the most was how much my dizziness dropped as I continued treatment. I had thought it was something else entirely, but once the real issues were identified and corrected, everything finally started to make sense.
The laser treatments and upper back scraping helped release so much built up tension that I had been carrying for years. For the first time in a long while, my body actually felt like it could relax instead of constantly feeling tight and uncomfortable.
Dr Ardavan is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and genuinely cares about your progress. He takes the time to explain what is going on and makes you feel heard, which means a lot when you have been dealing with something for this long.
A huge thank you to Nikita as well. She is an extremely sweet and welcoming receptionist who always makes you feel comfortable from the moment you walk in.
If you have been struggling with TMJ, jaw pain, neck issues, dizziness, or posture related problems, I truly recommend this place. After two years of dealing with these issues, this has been a game changer for me.
The laser treatments and upper back scraping helped release so much built up tension that I had been carrying for years. For the first time in a long while, my body actually felt like it could relax instead of constantly feeling tight and uncomfortable.
Dr Ardavan is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and genuinely cares about your progress. He takes the time to explain what is going on and makes you feel heard, which means a lot when you have been dealing with something for this long.
A huge thank you to Nikita as well. She is an extremely sweet and welcoming receptionist who always makes you feel comfortable from the moment you walk in.
If you have been struggling with TMJ, jaw pain, neck issues, dizziness, or posture related problems, I truly recommend this place. After two years of dealing with these issues, this has been a game changer for me.
Fatemeh Kalantari
22:09 19 Dec 25
Highly recommended.
I first visited the Y & F dental office because I was experiencing constant, severe, spreading gum pain that wouldn’t go away—even after taking 10 Advil a day. I was convinced I had a serious cavity or an infection in my teeth or gums.
Dr. Amir examined me and diagnosed me with TMJ. For pain management, he recommended that I see a chiropractor and referred me to Jaw Spine. My pain was so intense that I honestly couldn’t believe these treatments would help, but they truly did. I noticed a difference in my pain level even after my very first session with Dr. Ardavan.
Each session continues to make a noticeable improvement, and the home exercises he gives me have been incredibly helpful in breaking the habits that were contributing to my discomfort. I’m currently doing cold laser therapy and pressure therapy, and I highly recommend these treatments to anyone dealing with similar issues.
Besides the successful results I’ve experienced, I also want to highlight how wonderful the entire team is. From the receptionist to the doctors, every staff member is kind, helpful, and professional. I’m genuinely so happy that I walked into their clinic on that first day 🙂
---
If you want, I can also make it shorter, more formal, or more emotional.
I first visited the Y & F dental office because I was experiencing constant, severe, spreading gum pain that wouldn’t go away—even after taking 10 Advil a day. I was convinced I had a serious cavity or an infection in my teeth or gums.
Dr. Amir examined me and diagnosed me with TMJ. For pain management, he recommended that I see a chiropractor and referred me to Jaw Spine. My pain was so intense that I honestly couldn’t believe these treatments would help, but they truly did. I noticed a difference in my pain level even after my very first session with Dr. Ardavan.
Each session continues to make a noticeable improvement, and the home exercises he gives me have been incredibly helpful in breaking the habits that were contributing to my discomfort. I’m currently doing cold laser therapy and pressure therapy, and I highly recommend these treatments to anyone dealing with similar issues.
Besides the successful results I’ve experienced, I also want to highlight how wonderful the entire team is. From the receptionist to the doctors, every staff member is kind, helpful, and professional. I’m genuinely so happy that I walked into their clinic on that first day 🙂
---
If you want, I can also make it shorter, more formal, or more emotional.
nikta osareh75
18:19 19 Dec 25
I had an excellent experience with Dr. Ardi. He is a highly skilled and knowledgeable chiropractor, especially in treating TMJ disorders. From the very first visit, he took the time to thoroughly assess my condition and clearly explain the treatment plan, which made me feel comfortable and confident.
Dr. Ardi is professional, caring, and truly attentive to his patients’ needs. I noticed a significant improvement in my jaw pain and overall discomfort after treatment. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for an experienced chiropractor, particularly for TMJ-related issues.
Dr. Ardi is professional, caring, and truly attentive to his patients’ needs. I noticed a significant improvement in my jaw pain and overall discomfort after treatment. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for an experienced chiropractor, particularly for TMJ-related issues.
Alessandra Da Rocha
13:46 26 Oct 25
Dr. Ardavan is helping me with TMJ, and it’s been really helpful. I’ve noticed a big difference since starting treatment. He’s very professional and extremely knowledgeable.
I go to the Wellington location, which is inside a dental clinic.
I go to the Wellington location, which is inside a dental clinic.
Marcia Graff
07:08 21 Aug 25
I have been to several dentists and doctors for my jaw pain and numbness and no one was able to figure out what the issue was until I came here to see Dr. Ardi Jafari. He went over a very thorough medical background and did an examination during the initial consult and recommended that I ask my family doctor to send me for a neck ultrasound. I did the ultrasound and they found a lesion in one of my salivary glands for which I'm scheduled to see a specialist now. This was beyond my expectations from a chiropractor. I'll be forever thankful to Dr. Jafari to identify the source of my jaw discomfort. I never had such a calm and thorough experience at a doctors office before.
Ritesh Lalit
00:02 05 Jun 25
I really want to recommend JawSpine Centre and Dr Ardi for cervical pain and severe headaches caused by it.
Radha krishna sai Gumparthy
12:22 03 Jun 25
My Friend refer me to this Chiropractor clinic and after coming here my back injury pain started reducing. Dr.Ardi is really skillful.
Sushant Thakur
05:02 01 Jun 25
Very professional chiropractic or jawspine therapy centre
Anshit
04:47 01 Jun 25
Highly recommended! I’ve tried different types of therapy and would like to find the root cause of my symptoms. My experience was awesome with Dr Ardi, the staff .Besides the regular treatment, they provide you with advice on your posture. It improved my conditions and I can see how it will make further changes to my life and health.. great jawspine centre
Saksham Thakur
17:06 31 May 25
Dr Ardi is fantastic! He really helped with my pain, and the clinic has such a friendly vibe. Highly recommend this jawspine centre if you’re looking for a chiropractor therapy
Ved Patel
16:08 27 May 25
I used to wake up every morning with jaw pain, but then a friend recommended the Jawspine Centre in town. Dr. Ardi is a humble and professional chiropractor who treated my pain effectively. I highly recommend this place to everyone.
Mehak Thakur
15:37 24 May 25
my experience with this jawspine centre was exceptional. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of physiotherapy. Their expertise, professionalism, and personalized approach make them stand out
Dhruv Rangra
13:31 24 May 25
The best I have come across.
The hospitality is home-like.
Everyone is really helpful and verbose.
Dr. Ardi himself is really helpful and always suggests things which will help your cause, whatever it may be.
highly recommended jawspine centre in Toronto
The hospitality is home-like.
Everyone is really helpful and verbose.
Dr. Ardi himself is really helpful and always suggests things which will help your cause, whatever it may be.
highly recommended jawspine centre in Toronto
gargi choudhary
11:46 24 May 25
I had severe back pain for months and tried everything with no relief. A friend Nikita recommended a Chiropractor in Toronto and after my first session, I felt a noticeable difference. With just a few more visits, my pain was almost gone, and I regained my energy and flexibility. The team was professional and caring, making the whole experience excellent. Highly recommended jawspine centre for anyone dealing with back pain!
Maahi
14:07 18 May 25
Sir i extend my gratitude for relieving my Back pain. Your knowledge and skill i experienced in your therapy which help me getting relief. You devote proper time and energy in taking care of patient....I will definitely recommend this jawspine centre to my friends and family
nida riaz
20:00 16 May 25
I have had jaw pain . I clench my teeth and it had taken a toll even with a night guard. I tried many things and was close to getting invasive treatment until i got Dr Ardi from my friend.He was realistic about what the outcomes could be .
I followed the treatment plan including the at home exercises and today was my final appointment.
I didn’t honestly think he would ever be able to massage it without the pain but today there was none, all tension and pain gone .
I highly recommend dr.ardi .I cannot say enough good things. Give him a try before you jump to something invasive .
I followed the treatment plan including the at home exercises and today was my final appointment.
I didn’t honestly think he would ever be able to massage it without the pain but today there was none, all tension and pain gone .
I highly recommend dr.ardi .I cannot say enough good things. Give him a try before you jump to something invasive .
Ajay bhardwaj
08:01 14 May 25
I’m extremely pleased with the chiropractic care I received from Dr.Ardi. He took the time to understand my issues and provided personalized treatment. The clinic has a welcoming atmosphere, and Dr.Ardi expertise made a noticeable difference in my posture and pain relief. I highly recommend this clinic for anyone seeking quality chiropractic Care..I genuinely say that it's a great jawspine centre in Toronto
Jyoti Yadav
14:52 09 May 25
This clinic's staff is very professional and attentive.The expertise and knowledge that Dr. Ardi possesses in treating cervical spine issues is incredible. I had been suffering from unbearable neck pain, but after just a few sessions at his clinic, I experienced significant relief... good jawspine centre in Toronto
Ashlesh sharma
14:05 08 May 25
I had a severe problem of clenching due to which I have started Having headache but after coming to Jawspine center and meeting Dr Ardi was life-changing decision due to his precise knowledge and experience and exercises I have started feeling a lot better and I really recommend this for TMJ pain and clenching problems
Yomesh Paliwal
11:40 08 May 25
I'm here to share my experience and give an honest review. I injured my rear delt in my shoulder, and I was very worried. When I came here, the staff was very friendly, especially Dr Ardi who treated me well. Now, I'm fully recovered, and I would recommend others to come here for treatment .. highly recommended jawspine centre
MADARA UCHIHA
11:12 08 May 25
I am suffering from cervical pain for a long time, I was even not able to comb my hairs. I was in deep pain. I am super impressed with the treatment given by dr Ardi After my first session only I feel much relief in my pain. He has professional approach and knows all the trigger points very well, his knowledge is super abundant. I have never had an experience like this with any of the health practitioner. He is so humble and patient with his patients. After my sessions I can move my neck easily, raise my hand without pain. Thank you Dr Ardi .. recommend this jawspine centre for great experience
Bahar Heydari
21:34 07 Mar 25
Had my first session with Dr. Ardi for neck and lower back pain—great experience! He was thorough, explained everything clearly, and I felt relief right away. Highly recommend!
Jane Kinner
09:50 03 Mar 25
I was suffering from severe jaw discomfort, and Dr. Ardi at The JawSpine Centre was fantastic! After a few sessions, I felt significantly better.
Jeannette Betton
09:20 01 Mar 25
The amount of consideration and care I received astounded me. The office atmosphere is pleasant and tranquil, and the employees are warm and inviting. After only a few treatments, my neck pain, which I've had for years, has significantly improved. I can't wait to see even more improvement as I continue my treatment.
Corey Tran
10:10 22 Feb 25
This location in downtown Toronto is a hidden treasure. This chiropractor is outstanding and genuinely concerned about his patients. The outcomes are incredible, and I've been going for a few weeks. I never feel hurried, and every session feels unique. The personnel is welcoming and gives you a sense of importance.
Fannie Lopez
07:00 22 Feb 25
The JawSpine Centre is amazing! My jaw pain is finally gone after seeing them. They were so knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything.
John C. Hughes
09:18 20 Feb 25
I was very nervous about my jaw problems, but The JawSpine Centre was fantastic! They listened carefully and explained everything clearly. I'm already feeling lot better after only a few sessions.
David Prescott
04:53 18 Feb 25
I would have never thought that my ear pain and ringing would go away after getting treatments from a chiropractor. Dr. Jafari has completely changed my opinion about chiropractors.
Alireza Arasteh
23:19 17 Feb 25
James Rivers
09:18 17 Feb 25
I started seeing Dr. Jafari at his jaw pain clinic in downtown Toronto and now after 6 weeks, not only my jaw tension is gone, but he also treated my neck and hips. I feel like I have a new body. Highlt recommend him.
Donald Smith
11:42 15 Feb 25
When I saw Dr. Jafari at his downtown jaw centre, I had jaw pain along with mild clicking. After 6 weeks of treatment, my jaw pain is now 0 and the clicking had become very infrequent even though he has told me the clicking will not likely go away from treatment. Hightly recommend Dr. Jafari.
Justin Chang
11:33 15 Feb 25
I'm so glad I discovered The JawSpine Centre! They were kind and caring, and they truly helped me grasp my situation. I feel so much better right now.
Ricky Sneed
11:35 14 Feb 25
All in one jaw centre in Toronto. I had my dental appointment and then saw Dr. Jafari for jaw and neck treatment. This was by far the best experience that I had at a dental/chiropractic clinic.
Rick Taylor
11:27 14 Feb 25
I can't believe how much better I feel after only a few visits. The JawSpine Centre is a game changer. Thank you, team!
Edson Costa
04:32 17 Jan 25
Excellent treatment and services!!
Donald Walton
12:29 16 Dec 24
Excellent services!! Thanks for the great adjustments.
Jocenito Gomes
04:49 14 Dec 24
Although I was hesitant to attempt an unusual treatment for my jaw pain, I'm delighted I did. This clinic's staff is very professional and attentive. They take the time to hear your worries and truly care about their patients. I felt at ease because of the laid-back and friendly atmosphere. My jaw pain has significantly lessened, and I'm at last beginning to notice some noticeable improvement.
Antônio Gomes
09:34 05 Dec 24
My jaw pain is GONE, thanks to The JawSpine Centre! Dr. Ardi identified the problem right away, and his remedies were effective. Additionally, the staff is quite pleasant. I feel terrific again!
Amrita
05:05 05 Dec 24
The JawSpine Centre is a game changer. The team was really educated and made me feel at ease throughout my therapy. My jaw discomfort has substantially improved.
Richard M. Wynn
03:23 29 Nov 24
It has changed my life to visit this facility. The combination of their help and expert chiropractic care has had a significant impact. I'm really appreciative and my jaw feels better than before.
Oscar Jonathan
07:03 27 Nov 24
The chiropractor was friendly and provided great treatment after listening to my issues and concerns. Thanks a ton!!
Brianna Johnson
11:58 21 Nov 24
Highly recommend this place and Dr. Ardi
Jose Heffner
09:13 21 Nov 24
Patients are very important to the workers here. The outcomes have been amazing, and each session feels intimate. I'm so happy I found this place since my jaw feels better than it has in years.
Tracy Hardwick
14:59 12 Nov 24
I have had jaw pain for years. I clench my teeth and it had taken a toll even with a night guard. I tried many things and was close to getting botox until i got Dr Ardavans name from my dentist. He was realistic about what the outcomes could be and he did let me know the massage would hurt at first (and it does) as any massage when your muscles are tense.
I followed the treatment plan including the at home exercises and today was my final appointment.
I didn’t honestly think he would ever be able to massage it without the pain but today there was none, all tension and pain gone even my tinnitus is better.
I highly recommend. I cannot say enough good things. Give him a try before you jump to something invasive like botox.
I followed the treatment plan including the at home exercises and today was my final appointment.
I didn’t honestly think he would ever be able to massage it without the pain but today there was none, all tension and pain gone even my tinnitus is better.
I highly recommend. I cannot say enough good things. Give him a try before you jump to something invasive like botox.
Dustin Blanchard
09:59 06 Nov 24
After doing Botox for several years and now getting no effects or relief from it I decided to see Dr. Ardi at Jawspine. He not only treats your jaw but he also explains everything in detail and he actually holds a conversation with you. You don't feel rushed and you actually feel valued. This place gave me a hope to deal with my jaw pain. This has impacted me both physically and mentally.
Christopher Davis
09:42 05 Nov 24
One thing I love about this place is Dr. Ardi is a very honest provider. He will tell you during your first consult if he can help you or not. If he cant help you, he will refer you to someone who will. This level of honestly is hard to find.
Rita Finch
06:56 05 Nov 24
I’ve seen Dr. Ardi in Trenton, ON and believe it or not he travels for his patients and see them at different dental clinics. Best chiropractor and provider I’ve ever seen.
Donald D. Sindelar
10:22 04 Nov 24
The most caring chiropractor in downtown toronto. Highly recommend.
George Snyder
10:15 04 Nov 24
I’ve had 3 weeks of treatment done at this place and It’s hard to explain this feeling but imagine being able to open your mouth with no pain when you wake up in the morning after years. That is something that I never thought I can do. I’m extremely thankful and highly recommend this place.
Angie Burton
03:32 09 Oct 24
This place is a gift from god. I had a hard time opening my mouth in the morning and now I can open it as wide as I can even right after I wake up. My ear pain is gone. The pressure around my eyes is fully gone. Simply a miracle. Best jaw centre in Toronto. Highly recommend.
26 Wellington St E, Unit 110, Toronto, ON M5E 1S2, Canada
Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 3:00 – 7:00 pm
Wednesday: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm
Sunday: Closed
Direct Billing Available in Toronto
Belleville
Belleville Quinte Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic
65 Dundas St E. Belleville ON K8N 1B9
Hours
Mondays: 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Tuesday: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Wednesday: 2:00 – 6:00 pm
Thursday: 11:00 am – 6 pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: Closed
Direct Billing Available in Bellevile
Working Hours
- Monday: 1 pm - 6 pm (Belleville)
-
Tuesday: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm (Belleville) |
3 pm – 7 pm (Toronto) -
Wednesday: 8:30 am – 12pm (Toronto) |
2 - 6 pm (Belleville) - Thursday: 11 am – 6 pm (Belleville)
- Friday: 9 am – 6 pm (Toronto)
- Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm (Toronto)
Our Popular Services
At Jaw & Spine Chiropractic Centre, we are committed to providing comprehensive chiropractic care tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Our clinics offer in the treatment of all neuromusculoskeletal disorders, with a particular focus on managing jaw and orofacial pain.
Quick Contacts
- Copyright 2025 The Jaw & Spine Doctor