Jaw popping and pain can be symptomatic of multiple causes, ranging from benign to chronic. Experiencing symptoms of jaw pain, popping, clicks or grinding can be disruptive and impact your overall quality of life. It is best to consult your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and intervention for effective management.
While many people might dismiss their jaw discomfort as “temporomandibular joint” (TMJ) symptoms, it is always best to seek professional advice to properly determine the cause of your jaw pain.
What is Temporomandibular Joint?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinged joint at the back of your jaw that connects to the sides of your head. It allows your mouth to open and close, which is necessary in daily activities such as eating, talking, and smiling. Without TMJ, these activities would be difficult or impossible. TMD is a catch-all term used by professionals to denote any dysfunction of the jaw and its surrounding structures.
Possible Causes of Jaw Popping
Jaw popping is typically caused by movement of the jaw joint. When bones and cartilage rub against each other, it can cause a popping, clicking, or grating noise. Some individuals describe this sensation as a “stretching,” while others feel a “snapping” or “crackling” sensation. In many cases, TMJ disorder or injury is the primary culprit for jaw popping.
Aside from TMJ disorder, there are several other potential causes of jaw popping, such as arthritis, dislocation of the disc connecting the jaw to the skull, chronic muscle tension, injury to the jaw joint, and dental problems.
Possible Causes of Jaw Pain
While jaw popping and clicking are usually mild in their nature and not considered serious, jaw pain is another matter altogether. Jaw pain can be quite debilitating, making it difficult to eat, talk, or even sleep. There are several possible causes of jaw pain, ranging from musculoskeletal to dental.
Some individuals experience jaw pain due to the muscular fatigue produced with bruxism, or tooth grinding. Other causes of jaw pain could be related to dental conditions, such as tooth abscess, tooth erosion, impacted teeth, and periodontal issues.
Interventions for Treating Jaw Popping and Pain
Effective treatment for jaw popping and pain will depend on the cause of the symptoms. Some of the interventions your healthcare professional may suggest include:
Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle modifications can be especially effective in treating TMJ symptoms. These lifestyle changes can include learning effective stress management techniques, practicing good posture, and avoiding chronic jaw clenching.
Oral Splints or Mandibular Orthotics
For many individuals, oral splints (also referred to as a night guard) can be extremely effective in treating jaw pain and popping. These custom-fitted devices are worn during the night and help to keep the teeth properly aligned to prevent bruxism and other jaw alignment issues.
In some instances, mandibular orthotics can be used in addition to or instead of an oral splint. Mandibular orthotics are custom-made devices that are designed to fit over the teeth in order to change the jaw’s position and produce more comfortable jaw movements. These devices can be used to treat TMJ disorders, Arthritis, and progressive disc displacements.
Muscle Relaxation Techniques
Muscle relaxation techniques are a common intervention for muscle-derived jaw pain. These techniques can include massage therapy, acupuncture, and hot or cold therapy. If muscle tension is contributing to TMJ symptoms, practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation therapy might be helpful.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be effective in treating jaw discomfort when muscle tension and alignment issues are a contributing factor to the symptoms. A physical therapist can develop a customized exercise program to help relax the muscles and improve jaw alignment. For some individuals, physical therapy combined with other treatments such as oral splints and muscle relaxation techniques can be helpful in alleviating jaw pain and clicking.
When you have a concern regarding jaw pain or popping, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and intervention. While TMJ pain and popping is not life-threatening, it can have significant impacts on your quality of life if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional to determine the most effective course of intervention for your particular circumstance.
