Jaw clicking or popping is a common symptom associated with Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). This condition affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which acts as a sliding hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull. While TMD symptoms can range from mild discomfort to chronic pain, the clicking noise is often the first sign of a mechanical imbalance in the joint.
Understanding the Mechanism of the Click
The temporomandibular joint connects the mandibular condyle (the rounded end of the lower jawbone) to the temporal bone of the skull. Between these bony surfaces lies the articular disc, a small piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion. A jaw click typically occurs when this disc is temporarily positioned improperly within the joint socket, known as disc displacement with reduction (DDWR).
When the mouth is closed, the disc slips forward or to the side of the condyle due to stretched ligaments or muscle tension. As the mouth opens, the condyle slides forward and pushes against the displaced disc, causing it to suddenly snap back into its correct position. This “reduction” creates the audible click. A secondary, grating sound, known as crepitus, can indicate later-stage joint deterioration where the protective disc has thinned or perforated, leading to bone-on-bone friction. Contributing factors to TMJ stress include chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), sustained clenching, and emotional stress that increases muscle tension around the jaw.
Immediate Relief and Self-Care Methods
Managing jaw clicking often involves non-invasive changes to daily habits. Applying temperature therapy to the affected joint area several times a day can help soothe inflamed muscles. Apply a moist heat pack or an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes. Cold therapy is recommended for acute pain, while chronic discomfort often responds better to moist heat.
Practicing jaw rest is an effective self-care measure that avoids overworking the joint. This includes avoiding chewing gum and hard-to-chew foods like nuts. Limit how wide the mouth is opened when yawning or taking a large bite. Temporarily switching to a soft diet, such as cooked vegetables, pasta, and yogurt, reduces strain on the jaw muscles. Gentle stretching and massage of the facial muscles can also promote relaxation. Consciously keeping the back teeth slightly separated throughout the day helps prevent clenching and reduces pressure on the TMJ.
When to Consult a Professional
While occasional, painless clicking may not require intervention, certain warning signs necessitate professional evaluation. Consult a dentist or specialist if the clicking is persistently accompanied by pain, tenderness, or difficulty chewing. Medical attention is necessary if the jaw joint locks, making it hard to fully open or close the mouth. This condition, known as a closed lock, means the articular disc is permanently displaced.
Other concerning symptoms include:
- Frequent, severe headaches.
- A noticeable change in how the upper and lower teeth fit together.
- Swelling around the jaw area.
A professional typically begins diagnosis with a physical examination of the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, along with a thorough patient history. Imaging techniques such as dental X-rays, Computed Tomography (CT) scans, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may be used to assess the disc position and the condition of the joint’s bony components.
Medical and Dental Treatment Options
Professional treatment for chronic jaw clicking often starts with conservative, non-surgical methods. A common dental intervention involves custom-fitted oral appliances, such as stabilization splints or mouthguards. These devices fit over the teeth to protect them from nocturnal grinding, reduce muscle tension, and help position the jaw in a relaxed alignment.
Physical therapy is utilized to improve jaw function and includes specific exercises designed to stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles. For temporary relief of inflammation and muscle spasms, a healthcare provider might prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or short-term muscle relaxants. If less invasive treatments fail to provide relief, more advanced procedures may be considered. These include arthrocentesis, a minor procedure that flushes the joint with sterile fluid to remove inflammatory byproducts, or, in rare and severe instances of joint damage, open-joint surgery.