Jaw clicking is a common phenomenon where a popping or snapping sound occurs near the ear when the mouth moves. This often happens during everyday activities like chewing, yawning, or speaking. These sounds signal an issue within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your lower jaw to your skull.
Reasons for Jaw Clicking
Disc displacement is a common reason for jaw clicking. This occurs when the small, shock-absorbing disc within the TMJ shifts from its normal position. Made of cartilage, this disc usually helps the jaw move smoothly. When the mouth opens, the disc can slip back into place, creating a distinct popping or clicking sound, known as “reduction.”
Muscle tension and spasm in the chewing muscles can also contribute to jaw clicking. Overworked jaw muscles, sometimes from teeth clenching or grinding due to stress, can affect jaw alignment and movement. This muscular imbalance can lead to discomfort and audible joint sounds.
Hypermobility can cause jaw clicking, a condition where jaw ligaments are unusually loose or elongated. This can lead to excessive forward gliding of the jawbone when opening the mouth, creating a click as the joint moves beyond its typical range. This “eminence click” can be mistaken for disc displacement.
Arthritis can damage the cartilage within the TMJ, leading to clicking or a grating sensation. This wear and tear or inflammation of the joint surfaces can disrupt smooth movement and produce sounds. A direct injury to the jaw, head, or neck can also cause or worsen jaw clicking by affecting the joint structures.
When to Consult a Doctor
While isolated jaw clicking without pain or limited movement typically does not require medical intervention, certain symptoms warrant a professional evaluation. Persistent or worsening pain associated with the clicking warrants a visit to a healthcare provider. This pain might be in the jaw, around the ear, or spread to the face, neck, or even cause headaches.
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully, or experiencing limited jaw movement, indicates a functional problem requiring assessment. If your jaw locks in an open or closed position, this signifies a more severe joint issue requiring immediate attention. Swelling or tenderness around the jaw joint also indicate a need for medical consultation.
If jaw clicking significantly interferes with daily activities like eating, speaking, or yawning, a doctor can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Seek medical advice if jaw clicking develops suddenly after an injury or trauma to the head or jaw, to rule out more serious damage.
Self-Care Approaches
A soft diet can reduce strain on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods, and cutting food into smaller pieces, allows the jaw to rest and can alleviate symptoms. Soups, pastas, and other easy-to-eat foods are good choices.
Limiting extreme jaw movements can also provide relief. This includes refraining from wide yawning, excessive gum chewing, or clenching the teeth. Being mindful of these habits can prevent overworking the jaw muscles and joints.
Stress management techniques are beneficial, as stress can lead to jaw clenching and increased muscle tension. Practicing relaxation methods like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness can help relax the jaw muscles. This reduces involuntary muscle tightening around the jaw.
Applying warm or cold compresses to the jaw area can offer comfort. Moist heat can increase blood circulation and relax tense muscles, while cold packs can decrease inflammation and numb pain. These can be applied for 10-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Gentle jaw exercises can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness, provided they do not cause pain. Simple movements like controlled opening and closing, or side-to-side glides, can be performed to support jaw function. Maintaining good posture, especially avoiding a forward head posture, can influence jaw alignment and reduce TMJ strain.