Many people notice a click or pop in their jaw when they yawn, chew or open wide. It can feel strange, and it is natural to wonder whether something is wrong with the joint.
The reassuring news is that jaw sounds on their own are common. This guide explains what the jaw joint does, when popping is usually nothing to worry about, which signs are worth having checked and what simple steps can help.
What is the jaw joint?
You have two temporomandibular joints (TMJs), one in front of each ear. They connect your lower jaw to your skull and work together with the chewing muscles every time you talk, chew, swallow or yawn.
Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are a group of conditions that affect these joints, the chewing muscles or both. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) describes TMDs as a group of more than 30 conditions and notes that they affect about 5% of adults in the U.S. They are twice as common in women as in men.
Why is my jaw popping or clicking?
Popping, clicking and grating sounds come from the jaw joint as the mouth opens and closes. The exact reason can vary from person to person, and it is not always possible to pin down a single cause.
The American Dental Association (ADA) lists several factors that can contribute to jaw joint problems, including arthritis, dislocation, injury, tooth and jaw alignment, and stress and teeth grinding. According to the NIDCR, an injury to the joint can lead to some TMDs, but in most cases the exact cause is not clear. Research suggests that a combination of genes and psychological and life stressors may play a part.
One common belief is worth correcting. The NIDCR states that research does not support the idea that a bad bite or orthodontic treatment such as braces causes TMDs.
Is jaw popping without pain normal?
Usually, yes. The NIDCR states that clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joints without pain are common, are considered normal and do not require treatment.
So if your jaw pops now and then but opens fully, feels comfortable and works the way it always has, that sound by itself is generally not a reason for concern. It is still reasonable to mention it at your next routine dental exam so your dentist can note it and check how the joint moves.
When is jaw clicking a sign of a problem?
Sounds become more meaningful when they come with other symptoms. The NIDCR lists these possible signs of a TMD:
- Pain in the chewing muscles or jaw joint, which is the most common symptom
- Pain that spreads to the face or neck
- Jaw stiffness
- Limited movement or locking of the jaw
- Painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
- Ringing in the ears, hearing loss or dizziness
- A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
Pain in the mouth, jaw or face may or may not be related to a TMD. Tooth problems, headaches and other conditions can cause similar discomfort, which is why an exam matters before any treatment begins. If your jaw locks, your bite suddenly feels different or the pain is persistent or getting worse, schedule a visit with your dentist or doctor rather than waiting.
What can I do at home for a popping jaw?
For mild symptoms, both the NIDCR and the ADA favor a "less is often best" approach that starts with simple, reversible steps:
- Choose softer foods for a while to give your jaw a rest.
- Cut back on jaw habits such as clenching, gum chewing and nail biting.
- Use heat or cold on the face, along with gentle exercises to stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation to help ease jaw tension.
The NIDCR notes that short term use of over the counter pain relievers may also provide relief, and that TMD symptoms often go away on their own without treatment. Follow the label directions and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether a medicine is right for you.
How do dentists evaluate jaw popping?
There is no single standard test for TMDs. According to the NIDCR, your dentist or doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history, including where the pain is, when it happens and what makes it better or worse. They will examine your head, neck, face and jaw for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty moving. In some cases, imaging such as an X-ray, MRI or CT scan may be recommended.
Depending on what the exam shows, your dentist may suggest a care plan or refer you to a physician or another dental specialist.
What treatments are used for TMJ problems?
Experts recommend starting with conservative treatments. The NIDCR advises avoiding treatments that permanently change the jaw joints, teeth or bite, and notes there is insufficient evidence that these permanent bite changes treat TMDs. In some cases they can make the problem worse.
Options your dentist may discuss include:
- Jaw exercises and physical therapy. Research suggests that manual therapy, a type of physical therapy, may help some people.
- Behavioral approaches. Cognitive behavioral therapy and biofeedback may help some people manage symptoms.
- Oral appliances. A night guard or bite plate that fits over the teeth may be suggested, especially when clenching or grinding is involved. The NIDCR notes that the evidence on whether these appliances improve TMD pain is limited, that an appliance should not be designed to permanently change your bite and that you should stop using it and contact your dentist if it causes pain.
- Medications recommended or prescribed by your dentist or doctor when appropriate.
Before agreeing to any treatment that is irreversible, the NIDCR suggests discussing the benefits, risks and alternatives with your provider and considering a second opinion.
Getting your jaw checked in Palo Alto
An occasional pop without pain is usually just part of how your jaw moves. Pain, locking, a change in your bite or symptoms that linger are good reasons to have it looked at. At Palo Alto Oral Health, we can examine your jaw joints, muscles, teeth and bite and talk through conservative options that fit your situation. You can learn more about our TMJ evaluation and treatment, call (650) 321-9693 or request an appointment.
Sources
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders)
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Less Is Often Best in Treating TMD
American Dental Association, MouthHealthy: Temporomandibular Joints (TMJ)
This article provides general education and does not replace an individual dental examination or diagnosis.
