Jaw clicking is one of the most common TMJ (temporomandibular joint) symptoms. The click happens when the disc inside the joint — a small cushion of cartilage between your jawbone and skull — moves out of its normal position as you open your mouth.
What Causes Jaw Clicking
The most common cause is disc displacement. The disc sits between the joint surfaces and normally keeps movement smooth. With age, stress, or habitual clenching, the disc can slip forward and produce a click when it pops back into place on opening or closing. Often there's no pain associated — just the click sound — which many people live with for years.
Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) puts enormous strain on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. This is one of the most common drivers of TMJ symptoms, including clicking, popping, and jaw pain. Many people grind their teeth at night without knowing it.
Arthritis in the jaw joint can cause clicking and crepitus (a grating sound) as the joint surfaces wear. Osteoarthritis is common in older adults, while rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the TMJ.
Trauma — a blow to the jaw or whiplash — can damage the joint structures and lead to clicking that may appear years after the original injury.
When to Seek Treatment
Occasional, painless clicking alone usually doesn't require intervention. However, if the clicking is accompanied by jaw pain, locking (inability to fully open or close), headaches, or ear pain, a TMJ assessment is warranted. Treatment options include a custom night guard, jaw exercises, physiotherapy, and in persistent cases, surgical intervention.
If any of this sounds familiar, book an assessment with us. The sooner we take a look, the simpler the treatment is likely to be. Call the practice on 01323 723757 or book online at www.meadsdental.com.