Are you experiencing a popping or clicking sound when you talk or chew? This could be a sign of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJD, which occurs when there is a misalignment of the jaw joint. It can cause pain, stiffness, and jaw popping or clicking.
If you think you may have TMJD, it’s important to know the symptoms and possible causes. In this article, we will explore how TMJD causes a popping jaw, and when you should seek an evaluation by Dr. Kelley Mingus, a dental clinician in Bend, Oregon.
What Is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects your jawbone to the rest of your skull. It is one of the most complex joints in the human body, and it is responsible for the movements of the jaw, including speaking, chewing, and gesturing.
When a problem with the TMJs occur, it can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the jaw, as well as difficulty opening and closing the mouth. The pain from TMJ disorder can also spread to other parts of the face, neck, and shoulders.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJD?
The symptoms of TMJD can vary from person to person. Some people may experience only mild discomfort in the jaw and face, while others may have more severe symptoms such as jaw locking, jaw popping or clicking, and difficulty opening the mouth.
Other symptoms of TMJ disorder may include ringing in the ears, headaches, dizziness, and the feeling of the jaw being stuck in one position. These symptoms can be frustrating and disruptive to your daily activities.
What Causes TMJD to Make a Popping Sound
TMJ disorder can cause the joint to become misaligned, which can result in the jaw making a popping or clicking sound. This occurs when the ball-and-socket joint does not move smoothly or evenly, and the bones of the joint rub against each other.
This can cause the tendons and ligaments in the joint to become stretched or strained, and it can result in a feeling of tightness or discomfort in the jaw. In some cases, the jaw may also lock up or open too wide, causing pain and difficulty when performing normal activities such as eating or talking.
In addition to misalignment, other factors can contribute to TMJ disorder. For example, poor posture can put strain on the jaw joint, and stress and anxiety can cause teeth grinding or clenching, which can lead to TMJD.
Seek an Evaluation by Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend
If you think you may have TMJD, it’s important to seek evaluation and treatment by a dental professional. Dr. Kelley Mingus, a skilled practitioner in Bend, Oregon, has the experience and expertise to properly diagnose and treat TMJ disorder.
Dr. Mingus will perform a thorough dental examination and assess your symptoms, then develop a customized treatment plan to help alleviate your pain and other symptoms. This may include oral appliances, physical therapy, or other treatments.
In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct a severe misalignment of the jaw joint. Dr. Mingus has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform these procedures and will help you know what to expect before, during, and after your surgery.
Conclusion
TMJ disorder occurs when the jaw joint becomes misaligned, causing discomfort and pain in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders. TMJD may also cause the jaw to make a popping or clicking sound when you talk or chew. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek evaluation and treatment by a dental professional, such as Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend, Oregon. With the right treatment, you can relieve your pain and improve your quality of life.
