Jaw Clicking, Popping, Catching, and Locking
Jaw clicking and popping are commonly associated with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder.
Clicking or popping sounds that emanate from your jaw joints when opening your mouth or while chewing typically indicate that the disc of cartilage inside the jaw joint (the articular disc) is coming in and out of alignment. These noises can stay this way for several years without pain and without progression.
If the clicking and popping progresses, it can lead to the jaw catching or even locking closed – a painful condition during which the mouth cannot open more than 1-2 finger widths. If YOU have popping or clicking that becomes painful OR if your jaw starts catching or locking, it’s best to seek the care of a skilled and experienced TMJ Dentist.
Jaw Anatomy
Your “lower” jawbone is known as the mandible. At the end of that bone is the condyle which connects your lower jaw to the skull on both sides of your head near your ears. Those connection points are the temporomandibular joints (the jaw joints). The jaw operates like a hinge so that you can freely open and close your mouth. In between the bony components of the joints sits a cartilaginous disc called the articular disc. If this disc is coming in and out of alignment, you will hear clicking and popping noises when you open and close your mouth.
What Does it Mean When My Jaw Catches or Locks?
When the articular disc comes completely out of alignment, it dislocates! This condition is called “Disc Displacement Without Reduction” – also called “Jaw Locked Closed”. This is often a very painful condition and must be treated by a skilled and experienced TMJ Dentist. Do not attempt to force your mouth open if you experience jaw locking!
Dr. Mistry is one of the only TMJ practitioners who celebrates a 90% success rate with treatment of jaw locking and catching! Her unique treatment involves:
- TMJ Orthotics
- Craniofacial Therapy: a combination of craniosacral therapy, myofascial release, and osteopathic manual jaw manipulation.
- Frequent Therapy Appointments & Orthotic Adjustments
- Diet Modifications
Jaw Catching and Locking Remedies in Vancouver, WA - Near Portland, OR
If you experience temporomandibular joint dysfunction symptoms or your jaw joints click and pop frequently, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mistry at The TMJ Doc. Begin your journey with a comprehensive exam so that she can devise the ideal treatment plan for you!