Jaw locking, medically known as trismus or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, is a condition where the movement of the lower jaw becomes severely restricted. This often results in difficulty opening or closing the mouth normally. While it can be an uncomfortable experience, it is frequently temporary. Fortunately, effective steps can be taken at home to manage the situation.
Immediate Self-Care Steps
When your jaw locks, remain calm, as anxiety can increase muscle tension. Gently place your palms on each side of your jaw and try to wiggle your jaw softly back and forth and side to side. Avoid forcing the jaw open or closed to prevent further injury.
Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help relax tight jaw muscles. Use a warm cloth or heating pad for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times a day. If you experience pain, a cold compress can help reduce pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can also manage pain and swelling.
Gentle jaw exercises can aid in loosening the muscles. Try a “smile stretch” by making the widest pain-free smile, then slowly opening your jaw about two inches, repeating 5-10 times. Another exercise involves placing the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth and slowly opening your mouth as wide as possible without pain, then slowly closing it, repeating for 30 seconds. You can also try moving your jaw from side to side in small, controlled motions for 30 seconds.
Common Causes of Jaw Locking
Jaw locking often stems from issues with the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) or surrounding muscles. These joints, located on each side of the head in front of the ears, act like hinges, enabling jaw movements for speaking, chewing, and yawning. When the TMJ’s articular disc shifts out of place, or if the cartilage is damaged, the jaw can become locked.
Muscle spasms are a frequent cause of restricted jaw movement. These spasms can result from stress, unconscious teeth clenching (bruxism), or grinding, which place excessive strain on the jaw muscles. Direct injury or trauma to the jaw, such as a fracture or tissue damage, can also lead to jaw locking.
Dental procedures requiring the mouth to be open for an extended period, like wisdom tooth extraction, can sometimes cause temporary jaw locking due to inflammation or hyperextension. Underlying medical conditions can also contribute, including various types of arthritis, oral infections, or tetanus.
When Professional Help is Needed
While self-care steps can often alleviate jaw locking, specific circumstances warrant professional medical or dental attention. If your jaw remains locked after attempting home remedies for a few hours, or if you cannot gently move it back into place, seek help. Persistent or worsening pain, especially if it spreads to your face or neck, also indicates a need for professional evaluation.
Severe symptoms such as swelling in the jaw or face, or difficulty eating, speaking, or breathing due to the locked jaw, require immediate attention. Recurrent episodes, even if temporarily resolved, suggest an underlying issue needing professional diagnosis and treatment. If jaw locking is accompanied by fever or other signs of infection, such as a bitter taste or swollen glands, prompt medical consultation is important. Healthcare providers, including dentists, oral surgeons, or general practitioners, can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment.
Preventing Future Episodes
To reduce future jaw locking episodes, adopt preventive measures. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce jaw muscle tension, as stress often contributes to clenching and grinding.
Avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods can lessen strain on your jaw joints and muscles. Cutting food into smaller pieces can also help minimize excessive jaw movements.
Practicing good posture, particularly sitting and standing straight with your chin parallel to the floor, can reduce stress on jaw muscles. Being mindful of excessive jaw movements, such as very wide yawning or frequent gum chewing, can also prevent overexertion. If teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) is suspected, consult a dentist about a custom-fitted night guard to protect your jaw and teeth. Regular dental check-ups are important for early detection and management of any jaw-related issues.