Introduction

Have you ever experienced that unsettling clicking sound in your jaw when you open or close your mouth? If so, you're not alone. Jaw clicking, also known as jaw popping or jaw cracking, is a common phenomenon that many people experience at some point in their lives. While it's often harmless and temporary, it can be indicative of an underlying issue in some cases. In this blog post, we'll explore the causes of jaw clicking and discuss when you should be concerned about it.

What Causes Jaw Clicking?

1. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: TMJ disorder is a common cause of jaw clicking. It occurs when there are problems with the jaw joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. These problems can include misalignment, inflammation, or damage to the joint, leading to clicking, popping, or even locking of the jaw.

2. Bruxism: Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, can contribute to jaw clicking. The excessive pressure and wear and tear on the jaw joint can result in clicking or popping sounds.

3. Muscle Strain: Overuse or strain of the jaw muscles can lead to jaw clicking. This can occur due to habits like chewing gum excessively or biting your nails.

4. Trauma or Injury: A direct blow to the jaw or an accident can cause damage to the TMJ, leading to clicking or popping sounds.

5. Arthritis: Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the TMJ. Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can lead to jaw clicking and discomfort.

6. Dental Issues: Dental problems such as a misaligned bite or missing teeth can alter the jaw's alignment, resulting in jaw clicking.

When to Worry About Jaw Clicking

1. Persistent Pain: Occasional jaw clicking that's not accompanied by pain is usually not a cause for concern. However, if you experience persistent or worsening pain along with jaw clicking, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Pain may indicate an underlying issue that requires treatment.

2. Limited Jaw Movement: If your jaw clicks, pops, or locks, and this restricts your ability to open or close your mouth fully, it's a sign that something may be wrong with the TMJ. Seek medical attention to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

3. Difficulty Eating or Speaking: Severe jaw clicking that interferes with your ability to eat, speak, or perform daily activities should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

4. Other Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms like headaches, earaches, or a sensation of pressure or fullness in the ears in conjunction with jaw clicking, it may indicate a more complex issue.

5. Self-Help Measures Fail: If you've tried self-help measures such as applying heat or cold packs, avoiding hard or chewy foods, and practicing relaxation techniques, but your jaw clicking persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Jaw clicking is a common occurrence that can often be attributed to harmless causes like overuse or mild muscle strain. However, when it becomes persistent, painful, or interferes with your daily life, it's essential to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can diagnose the underlying cause of your jaw clicking and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include physical therapy, medications, or, in severe cases, surgery.

At Strathcona Physical Therapy, our team includes highly specialized physiotherapists who focus on TMJ and jaw-related issues. You can reach out if you have any concerns.

Remember that early intervention is key to addressing more serious conditions, and with the right guidance and treatment, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.