Jaw popping, medically known as crepitus, clicking, or grating, is a common symptom originating from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that connects the lower jaw to the skull. This sound often signals a dysfunction within this complex joint, which is involved in speaking, chewing, and yawning. The duration of jaw popping is highly variable, ranging from temporary, self-resolving episodes to a permanent, chronic condition. The duration depends on the underlying physical cause and whether that cause is allowed to progress without intervention.
Understanding the Causes of Jaw Popping
The primary mechanism behind the clicking or popping sound is often the displacement of the articular disc, a small, cushioning piece of cartilage within the joint. This disc acts as a shock absorber between the jawbone and the skull. When it slips out of its normal position, the jawbone has to “jump” over a ridge to move properly. The resulting noise is called “disc displacement with reduction,” meaning the disc snaps back into place during movement.
Other common causes relate to muscle tension or stress. Unconscious clenching or grinding of the teeth, known as bruxism, strains the surrounding muscles and ligaments, leading to temporary misalignment and popping. This type of popping is often a response to a behavioral habit or acute stress, making it more likely to be short-lived once the habit or stressor is addressed.
A more concerning cause of jaw noise is joint degeneration, which results in a grinding or grating sound known as crepitus instead of a distinct click. This sound indicates that the protective cartilage has worn down, causing bone to rub against bone, a sign correlated with arthritis within the TMJ. Additionally, trauma to the jaw can lead to structural changes that cause the joint to shift out of alignment or damage the ligaments supporting the disc. These structural issues persist until managed.
Typical Duration Based on Severity and Origin
The timeline for jaw popping is directly linked to the specific origin of the sound, falling into three categories. Acute, temporary popping usually lasts for days to a few weeks before resolving. This includes popping caused by minor muscle strain, such as keeping the mouth open too long during a dental procedure, or excessive gum chewing that temporarily fatigues the joint.
Intermittent or progressive popping can persist for months, often occurring when disc displacement is in its early stages. The disc is still able to reduce, or snap back into place, but this action is inconsistent and can progress into a more serious issue without management. If clicking becomes more frequent, it signals that the underlying instability is worsening.
Chronic, persistent popping can last indefinitely, often for years, and is associated with significant structural changes. If the displaced disc stops snapping back into place, the clicking noise may suddenly stop, but this progression often leads to painful limited jaw movement known as a “closed lock.” Jaw popping that has progressed to crepitus (the grinding noise) is a symptom of advanced joint degeneration and will not resolve without professional management aimed at halting the arthritic process.
Altering the Timeline Through Professional Management
Seeking professional help can significantly shorten the duration of jaw popping by addressing the root cause before structural damage occurs. Red flags that necessitate consultation include jaw pain, limited ability to open the mouth, or episodes where the jaw locks open or closed. Early intervention can halt the progression from a clicking joint to a chronic condition.
Non-invasive treatments are often the first line of defense and can quickly reduce symptoms. Oral appliances, such as custom-fitted mouthguards or splints, work by keeping the teeth slightly apart and repositioning the jaw. This reduces strain on the joint and allows the displaced disc to stay in a better position. Physical therapy and behavioral modifications, like stress management and a soft diet, help reduce muscle tension that contributes to the popping, shortening the overall timeline of the symptom.
For chronic issues, or when non-invasive methods fail, more advanced interventions may be considered. These include injection therapies, such as corticosteroids to reduce joint inflammation, or arthrocentesis to flush out the joint space. Surgical procedures are reserved for the most severe cases of chronic displacement or degeneration. While surgery is more invasive, it is designed to provide a long-term, structural resolution that permanently ends the popping.