Jaw clicking refers to a sound or sensation originating from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the lower jaw to the skull. This is a common symptom of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). While often a concern, understanding its causes can provide clarity.
What Causes Jaw Clicking
Jaw clicking often arises from issues within the temporomandibular joint. A primary cause involves the articular disc, a cushioning disc within the joint. When this disc moves out of position and snaps back during jaw movement, it produces a clicking sound, known as “disc displacement with reduction.”
Muscle imbalances or tension around the jaw can also contribute to clicking. Stress and anxiety often lead to clenching or grinding teeth, straining jaw muscles and altering joint movement. This pressure on the TMJ can result in misalignment and noises.
Degenerative changes, such as arthritis, can affect joint surfaces, causing sounds as bones and cartilage wear down. Conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation, stiffness, and clicking in the TMJ. Trauma to the jaw can also shift the joint out of alignment, causing clicking. Habits like excessive gum chewing, nail-biting, or teeth grinding (bruxism) can also strain the TMJ, leading to clicking.
Does Jaw Clicking Go Away On Its Own?
Whether jaw clicking resolves naturally depends on its specific cause and severity. Some instances are temporary and may improve without intervention, especially if linked to mild muscle strain, stress, or minor disc displacement that self-corrects. Clicking that occurs only when opening the mouth very wide, such as during a large yawn, is often considered normal and does not indicate a problem.
If the underlying issue is more significant, such as persistent disc displacement, chronic teeth grinding, or joint degeneration, the clicking may persist or worsen over time. A displaced disc may not require treatment if it causes no pain or limited mouth opening, as surrounding tissues can adapt. Conversely, if the clicking is accompanied by pain or restricted movement, it is less likely to resolve on its own.
Factors like the duration of symptoms, the presence of pain, and certain lifestyle habits can influence the likelihood of resolution. Some cases of jaw clicking are benign and self-limiting, but others may indicate a progression of a temporomandibular disorder. Monitoring symptoms is important to determine if professional guidance is needed.
When to See a Doctor for Jaw Clicking
While some jaw clicking is benign, certain symptoms indicate professional medical attention is appropriate. A significant red flag is jaw clicking accompanied by pain, particularly if persistent or severe. Pain around the jaw, ear, or temples, especially when chewing, can signal a need for evaluation.
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully, or a sensation that the jaw is getting “stuck” or “locked,” warrants a doctor’s visit. This can interfere with daily activities like eating and speaking. If clicking becomes more frequent, louder, or is accompanied by new or worsening symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
Associated symptoms, such as chronic headaches, earaches not due to an ear infection, or neck pain, can also indicate a broader temporomandibular disorder. Swelling around the jaw joint or any noticeable asymmetry in the face are additional signs suggesting a professional assessment. These symptoms suggest the jaw clicking might be part of a more extensive issue that could benefit from diagnosis and treatment.
Treatments for Jaw Clicking
Managing jaw clicking often begins with self-care strategies to reduce strain on the temporomandibular joint. Eating a soft diet helps rest the jaw muscles and joint. Avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods, and excessive gum chewing, can prevent aggravation.
Applying warm or cold packs to the jaw can soothe discomfort and reduce inflammation. Stress reduction techniques are valuable, as stress often contributes to jaw clenching and muscle tension. Gentle jaw exercises, demonstrated by a physical therapist, can improve jaw function and muscle flexibility.
When self-care is not sufficient, professional interventions offer support. Physical therapy can involve exercises and techniques to improve jaw movement, reduce muscle tension, and restore proper alignment. Oral appliances, such as splints or nightguards, are custom-fitted devices worn over teeth. These appliances can reposition the jaw, reduce pressure on the TMJ, and protect teeth from grinding and clenching.
Medications may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter options like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce discomfort. Muscle relaxants may be used for muscle tension and spasms. In some cases, injections, such as corticosteroids or botulinum toxin (Botox), may reduce inflammation or relax specific jaw muscles. Surgical options are typically reserved as a last resort for severe cases that do not respond to other treatments.