Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most fascinating and complex joints in your body. It controls the movement of your lower jaw, and it is vital for easy eating and speaking. Keeping it healthy is important! But what if you start to notice strange sounds coming from your TMJ, such as popping and clicking? Should you be worried? This blog post explains what those noises might mean and when you should seek treatment.
What Does Jaw Popping and Clicking Mean?
Does your jaw pop or click when you open your mouth wide, such as when you are biting a tall burger or yawning? That may occur simply because you are hyperextending the joint; a bone in your lower jaw is passing over a ridge in your upper jaw, leading to a slight popping or clicking sensation. This is a normal occurrence and usually not a cause for alarm.
There is another type of jaw popping that is more concerning. It occurs when the cartilage-like disc inside the joint gets displaced. You may hear a slight clicking or popping noise as it continually gets repositioned. This usually occurs when the mouth is being closed.
When to Seek Treatment
Here are some indications that clicking and popping in your jaw should be evaluated by a TMJ expert:
- You experience pain or discomfort when opening or closing your mouth. Tough and chewy foods may be especially difficult for you to consume.
- The popping and clicking is very frequent — it might even irritate others when they are eating with you.
- You have frequent headaches.
- You notice pain in your facial muscles, neck, or shoulders.
- You have experienced changes in the way your upper and lower teeth fit together.
- You have recently suffered an injury that affected your jaw, face, or teeth.
Diagnosing and Treating TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder (TMD) afflicts millions of people. Sadly, though, it is not always easy to diagnose because it is a complex condition that can cause many different symptoms. However, the good news is that with the help of a highly trained dentist, effective treatments are available.
After a TMJ expert evaluates your bite and learns about your symptoms, they can suggest a personalized treatment. You might need something as simple as a custom oral splint. Some patients require braces. In very rare cases, surgery is necessary. Often, professional treatments are best accompanied by at-home care, such as dietary changes and jaw exercises.
Clicking and popping in the jaw should not be ignored! If this symptom is interfering with your life, now is the time to seek treatment.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Tom Hall is an experienced orthodontist in Houston who has completed extensive training in TMJ disorder and bite alignment. In fact, his research on TMJ/TMD was even published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. If you suspect that your jaw joint is not as healthy as it should be, Dr. Hall and our team are ready to serve you. Get in touch with us at 713-589-7996.