Jaw clicking is common, originating from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that connects the lower jaw to the skull. While often benign, a clicking jaw can sometimes indicate an underlying issue. Understanding the TMJ’s mechanics and reasons for clicking helps clarify when it’s normal or signals a problem.
How Your Jaw Joint Works
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure facilitating jaw movements like opening, closing, and side-to-side motions. It’s formed by the mandible’s condyle fitting into a skull socket. Between these bones lies a small oval articular disc.
The articular disc serves as a shock absorber, cushioning the joint and ensuring smooth bone gliding. It moves in coordination with the jawbone, maintaining its position between the condyle and socket. When this disc shifts slightly out of alignment and then returns to place during jaw movement, it can produce a distinct clicking sound.
Reasons for Jaw Clicking
One of the most frequent reasons for jaw clicking is the displacement of the articular disc within the temporomandibular joint. This occurs when the disc moves from its ideal position between the jawbone and the skull. Often, the disc displaces forward when the jaw is at rest and then “reduces” or pops back into its correct alignment when the mouth opens wide, creating the click.
Another factor contributing to jaw clicking can be hypermobility, where the jaw joint moves beyond its typical range of motion, causing a click as components realign. Conditions like arthritis, involving inflammation or degeneration of joint surfaces, can also lead to clicking sounds due to irregular surfaces causing friction.
Muscle dysfunction within the jaw and surrounding facial areas can also influence joint mechanics. Tension or spasms in jaw muscles can alter joint operation, leading to misalignment and clicking. Chronic habits like bruxism place significant strain on the TMJ, contributing to disc displacement and joint wear. Injury or trauma to the jaw or face can also disrupt TMJ function, leading to immediate or delayed clicking sounds.
When Clicking Signals a Problem
While jaw clicking can occur without other symptoms, it often signals a more significant issue, such as a temporomandibular disorder (TMD), when accompanied by other signs. A primary indicator is persistent pain in the jaw, which can radiate to the face, ear, or neck and worsen with movement.
Limited jaw movement or difficulty opening the mouth fully is another concerning symptom, making eating or speaking challenging. Jaw locking, where the mouth gets stuck in either an open or closed position, is a clear sign that professional attention may be needed. Tenderness around the jaw joint also suggests an underlying issue.
Changes in how upper and lower teeth fit together, known as malocclusion, can indicate a TMJ problem. Headaches, particularly around the temples or forehead, and earaches not caused by infection, can be associated with jaw dysfunction. Swelling on the side of the face near the jaw joint is another visual cue.
What You Can Do At Home
For individuals experiencing jaw clicking without significant pain or severe symptoms, several self-care strategies can help manage the condition. Adopting a diet of soft foods reduces jaw muscle and joint work, allowing them to rest. Avoiding extreme jaw movements, such as wide yawning, frequent gum chewing, or biting hard foods, can also prevent further strain.
Applying moist heat or cold packs to the jaw area can help reduce muscle tension and inflammation; these can be applied several times a day. If pain allows, gentle jaw exercises can improve joint mobility and muscle function. Stress management techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, are also beneficial, as stress can contribute to jaw tension and clenching habits.
It is helpful to avoid habits that put unnecessary stress on the jaw, such as nail-biting or clenching teeth throughout the day. Maintaining good posture, especially when sitting for long periods, can also indirectly reduce strain on the neck and jaw muscles.
When to See a Professional
Seeking professional medical or dental advice is recommended if jaw clicking is accompanied by persistent pain or discomfort not improving with home care. Significant limitations in jaw movement, like difficulty opening wide or jaw locking, also warrant evaluation. When clicking combines with other concerning symptoms, including headaches, earaches, bite changes, or facial swelling, consult a healthcare provider.
If self-care measures have been tried consistently for several weeks without relief, professional intervention may be necessary. Any sudden changes in jaw function or bite alongside clicking should also prompt a specialist visit. A dentist is often the initial point of contact for jaw concerns due to their expertise. They may then refer to a TMJ specialist, oral surgeon, or other medical professional for assessment.