Why Does My Jaw Click or Pop?

A clicking, popping, or grinding sound when you open or close your mouth is often a sign of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. The TMJ is the hinge joint connecting your jaw to your skull, and problems with this joint can cause pain, difficulty chewing, and even headaches.

Common Causes

• Displacement of the disc inside the TMJ
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
• Arthritis in the jaw joint
• Jaw injury or trauma
• Stress causing tension in jaw muscles
• Misaligned bite (malocclusion)
• Poor posture affecting neck and jaw muscles

When to See a Dentist

If jaw clicking is accompanied by pain, if your jaw locks open or shut, if you have frequent headaches or earaches, or if chewing is painful, you should be evaluated. TMJ disorders tend to worsen without treatment.

TMJ Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on the cause and severity. Options include custom night guards to prevent grinding, physical therapy exercises, bite adjustment, and in some cases medication for pain and inflammation. We'll thoroughly evaluate your jaw joint and create a personalized treatment plan.