Should You Worry When You Click Your Jaw Opening?
Should You Worry When You Click Your Jaw Opening?
Blog Article
It can be alarming when your mouth opens with a clicking or popping noise. Not every episode indicates something greatly wrong, but in cases where the jaw click becomes a source of annoyance, it may speak of something going wrong in your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Knowing the common reasons and when to request for treatment may help manage this ailment in the most appropriate way.
Common Causes of Jaw Clicking
✔ Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) – this is the most common one for those where the said condition stems from a well misaligned jaw joint, or it is under too much stress.
✔ Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) - Contraction or grinding of teeth would strain the lower jaw joint and ultimately cause the noise.
✔ Jaw Injury – Any existing misalignment from a past injury or trauma to the jaw can lead to a clicking or popping sound.
✔ Arthritis – Osteoarthritis or even rheumatoid arthritis may create effects on the TMJ and the patient may feel painful conditions with clicking.
✔ Improper Bite (Malocclusion) – Bad bite alignment can force itself on the jaw joint and click though it will cause abnormal conditions.
-Overuse of chews or excessive chewing – Gumming too frequently and too much talking tend to exert extra pressure on the TMJ.
Under what circumstances should you start to worry?
Though your jaw clicks occasionally, it's nothing serious to worry about, but when you notice:
???? Your jaw feels painful or uncomfortable
???? Trouble with mouth opening or closing
???? Frequent headache or earache
???? So-called locked jaw during open or closed position
???? Tenderness and/or swelling around the joint of the jaw
Management of Jaw Clicking
✔ Jaw Relaxation Exercises- gentle stretching and by relaxing the muscles connected to the TMJ joint, minimizes any additional weight or stress on these muscles.
✔ Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods-easier-soft tissue utilization reduces the chances that your jaws suffer.
✔ Use Mouthguards if You Grind Your Teeth-Bruxing your teeth while sleeping would not strain your jaw from abrasive forces.
✔ Apply Warm or Cold Compresses-it can reduce systematic inflammation, as well as any muscle-discomfort created by TMJ activity.
✔ Good Posture - Poor postures while working or mainly using your phone such can also create stress on the jaw. If your jaw popping does not improve or continues to be painful, consult a health professional. At Smile Again Dental Clinic, we work on assessing your symptoms and providing treatment. If looking for the Best Dentist Mumbai, our am serves to put diagnosis and management of your jaw issues right.