Why Does My Jaw Click? Understanding and Treating TMJ Pain
- songkhunmorjudfun
- Oct 5
- 3 min read


Have you ever heard a distinct "click" or "pop" sound when you open your mouth, chew, speak, or yawn? You're not alone. That’s the sound of your jaw joint or temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ is one of the most complex joints in your body. While it usually works silently, strange noises can be unsettling and may signal an underlying issue that needs professional attention. This article will help you understand the causes behind the sounds and provide guidance on how to find relief.

Understanding 3 Common Causes of Jaw Clicking
The sounds from your jaw joint are typically linked to specific mechanical issues. Here are the three most common culprits:
Articular Disc Displacement: A small, shock-absorbing cartilage disc sits between the skull and the lower jawbone. If this disc slips out of its proper alignment, it can produce a "click" or "pop" sound as your jaw opens and the disc snaps back into place.
Degenerative Joint Changes: The jaw joints are susceptible to wear and tear from conditions like osteoarthritis or behaviors like chronic teeth grinding (bruxism). This erosion of cartilage can cause a grating, sandy sound known as “crepitus”, which indicates bone-on-bone contact.
Myofascial Pain and Tension: The muscles controlling your jaw can become overworked and tight from stress, clenching, or injury. This chronic tension can pull the jaw out of its ideal alignment and disrupt its smooth function, causing both sounds and discomfort.
Is Jaw Clicking Dangerous? 4 Key Warning Signs to Pay Attention Carefully
An isolated clicking sound without pain is often not an emergency. However, you should seek a professional evaluation from a dentist or TMJ specialist if you experience any of the following:
Persistent Pain: Aching in or around the jaw, ear, face, or temples, which may also include chronic headaches or neck pain.
Functional Limitation: Difficulty opening your mouth wide, a feeling of stiffness, or a sensation that the jaw is catching or sticking.
Jaw Locking: A highly concerning symptom where the jaw becomes locked in either an open or closed position, preventing movement.
Asymmetrical Jaw Movement: Noticeable shift or deviation of the jaw to one side when opening or closing your mouth.
How to Find Relief from Jaw Clicking and Pain
Finding relief depends on the severity of your symptoms. Here is a breakdown of simple self-care and the professional treatments we provide.
1. Initial Self-Care Tips
For minor sounds without significant pain, these simple changes can make a difference:
A. Eat Soft Foods: Give your jaw a rest by avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods.
B. Apply Heat or Cold Pack: Use a warm compress to relax tense muscles or a cold pack to reduce inflammation.
C. Practice Gentle Jaw Exercises: Simple massages of the area in front of your ears can help ease muscle tightness.
D. Manage Stress: Since stress is a major contributor to teeth grinding, relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga can be very beneficial.
2. Professional Treatment Options
When symptoms are painful or persistent, you should seek a professional evaluation from a dentist or TMJ specialist.
A. Dental Splints or Mouthguards: A dentist can create a custom-fitted appliance designed to prevent teeth grinding and gently guide your jaw into a more relaxed and correct position, especially during sleep.
B. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide specific exercises to strengthen jaw muscles, improve coordination, and relieve pain.
If you are concerned about the sounds or discomfort in your jaw, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and proper guidance.
Our clinic provides service from orthodontists certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), guaranteeing quality, expertise, and extensive experience to confidently care for your smile.
📞 Contact us
Mittraphap Rd : 099 467 8789 or 094 262 8448
Klangmuang Rd : 099 171 7161 or 043 22227
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