Jaw popping isn’t uncommon, and it’s easy to think it’s not a big deal, especially if it’s not accompanied by pain or joint dysfunction. But clicking noises aren’t normal, and without proper evaluation and treatment, it’s a problem that can get a lot worse over time.
Occasional jaw noises may not be a sign of a developing problem. But when jaw popping is persistent or recurrent, it could be related to an underlying issue called temporomandibular joint disorder, a chronic condition affecting your temporomandibular joining (TMJ) — as many as 12 million Americans.
TMD can become a lot worse without proper management, interfering with the way your jaw works and causing worsening symptoms. But fortunately, it can be treated — and the earlier treatment begins, the better.
At Park Place Smiles, Minal Patel, DDS, helps patients manage TMD symptoms and prevent complications with state-of-the-art treatments focused on restoring normal joint function. In this post, Dr. Patel explains why TMD happens and why prompt management is so important for your overall health and wellness.
Your jaw joints form where the temporal bone in your skull meets the mandible or lower jaw bone. Also called the temporomandibular joints, your jaw joints contain tiny discs that cushion the joint and protect it when you speak, chew, or move your jaw.
When the joints are healthy, the disc and bones line up in a way that promotes normal, friction-free jaw function. But if the joints move out of alignment — even a little bit — you can wind up with popping noises, along with other symptoms like “sticking” sensations, jaw pain, and even chronic headaches.
Issues that can cause or contribute to TMJ disorders include:
Many people develop TMD as a result of a problem with their bite mechanics caused by missing teeth or poorly aligned teeth. Chronic teeth grinding can lead to TMD, too.
These issues put even strain on your jaw joints, leading to excessive wear and joint degradation, along with painful inflammation. Eventually, these issues lead to jaw popping and pain, symptoms that tend to get worse without proper medical care.
TMJ treatment seeks to relieve inflammation and friction while realigning your jaw joints so your joints work the way they’re supposed to. Prior to recommending any type of treatment, Dr. Patel evaluates your jaw joints and your bite mechanics to ensure your therapy is focused on the issues causing your symptoms.
Since TMD can be caused by various factors, your treatment can vary, too, depending on the issue that’s causing joint wear-and-tear. Most people benefit from a combination of TMJ therapies that include both medical treatment and lifestyle changes, like:
You can also help reduce jaw strain by limiting foods that are very chewy or sticky and avoiding chewing gum entirely. Gently stretching your jaw and massaging your jaw joints may help, as well.
TMD is one possible cause of chronic jaw symptoms, but other issues can cause similar symptoms — and require a different approach to care. Have an evaluation as your first step toward finding relief and protecting your jaw from additional wear-and-tear.
To schedule your evaluation, book an appointment online or over the phone with Park Place Smiles in Glendora, California, today.
