How to Get Your Jaw to Unlock: Causes & What to Do

A “locked jaw” occurs when the lower jaw’s movement is restricted, making it difficult to open or close the mouth fully. This often involves dysfunction within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull, or its surrounding muscles. While distressing, jaw locking is a common, often temporary, and treatable issue. Understanding how to address this condition can help manage discomfort and guide appropriate care.

Immediate Self-Care Steps

When your jaw locks, gentle techniques can offer immediate relief. Apply a warm or cold compress to the affected area, such as near the jaw joint. A hot water bottle for 15-20 minutes or an ice pack for up to 5 minutes can soothe muscle tension and reduce discomfort.

Gentle jaw massage can alleviate tightness; focus on the muscles around your temples, cheeks, and jawline using circular motions. Simple, controlled jaw movements, performed without forcing the jaw, can also help. Slowly open and close your mouth as wide as comfortable, or gently move your jaw from side to side. These movements can improve flexibility and reduce tension.

Eating soft foods places less stress on the jaw joint and muscles. Opt for items like mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, pureed soups, or soft fruits. Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods that require excessive jaw movement, such as tough meats, nuts, or gum. Keeping your teeth slightly apart when not eating can also help relieve pressure on the jaw.

Common Reasons for Jaw Locking

Jaw locking often stems from issues affecting the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and their associated muscles. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are a common cause, involving problems with the jaw joint or its controlling muscles. Within TMDs, disc displacement, where the cushioning disc moves out of its normal position, can lead to locking.

Muscle spasms are another common cause, occurring when jaw muscles become overly tight. Habits like clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism) contribute to muscle fatigue and spasm, especially during sleep. Stress and anxiety are linked to increased jaw muscle tension, which can exacerbate clenching and grinding, potentially leading to a locked jaw. A direct injury to the jaw, head, or neck can also result in jaw locking.

When to Seek Professional Care

While many instances of jaw locking resolve with self-care, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical or dental attention. Seek care if jaw pain is persistent or severe, or if you are unable to open or close your mouth fully after home remedies. Recurrent episodes of jaw locking also warrant a professional evaluation.

Other symptoms requiring immediate attention include swelling in the jaw or face, fever, or if locking occurred after a significant injury or accident. Difficulty eating, drinking, or speaking due to jaw restriction also indicates a need for professional consultation. These symptoms could point to an underlying issue requiring specific diagnosis and treatment.

Professional Treatment Options

Healthcare professionals use various approaches to diagnose and treat a locked jaw, often starting with a thorough dental evaluation. Physical therapy is a common and effective treatment, involving exercises and stretches to improve jaw mobility and reduce pain. A physical therapist might use manual techniques like soft tissue massage or joint mobilization to release tension and restore movement.

Medications can provide relief, including over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., NSAIDs like ibuprofen), muscle relaxers for spasms, or antidepressants for chronic pain. Custom oral appliances, such as splints or night guards, are frequently used to stabilize the jaw, reduce pressure on the joint, and prevent teeth grinding or clenching. These custom-fitted appliances can be worn day or night, depending on the condition. In rare and severe instances where conservative treatments are insufficient, surgical interventions may be considered to address structural issues within the TMJ.

Preventing Future Jaw Locking

Preventing future jaw locking often involves long-term strategies for overall jaw health. Stress management techniques are particularly beneficial, as stress can contribute to jaw clenching and muscle tension. Practicing deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress and relax jaw muscles.

Dietary modifications also play a role; avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods minimizes strain on the jaw. Maintaining good posture is important, as poor alignment of the head and neck can affect jaw position and increase muscle strain. Being mindful of posture, especially when sitting at a computer or using devices, can prevent unnecessary stress on the jaw joints. Regular, gentle jaw exercises, as recommended by a professional, can help maintain flexibility and strength in the jaw muscles, reducing the likelihood of locking.