Jaw popping is a very common occurrence. It happens when the jaw makes a clicking or popping sound when it is moved, or when it makes a cracking or creaking sound. It is usually not a sign of a serious problem, but may be an indication of some underlying problem. In this article, we will discuss the most common causes of jaw popping and how to address them.
Causes of Jaw Popping
1. Excessive chewing or talking: Popping in the jaw is generally a result of excessive chewing, talking or yawning. If these are the contributing factors in jaw popping, the sound and the problem itself can go away by limiting the chewing, talking, and other activities that can cause the jaw to pop.
2. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is one of the most common causes of jaw popping. If this is the cause of the problem, it is generally associated with other symptoms such as jaw pain, decreased ability to open the mouth, and toothache.
3. Loose disk: A popping sound can be caused by i loose disk in the TMJ creating friction between the disc and the joint. The disk can become loose from injury and sometimes from no specific injury or reason. A loose disk can go back into place or create a new placement on its own.
Ways to Address Jaw Popping
1. Practice jaw relaxing exercises: Try relaxing and moving the jaw in both circular and side to side. This can help relax any tension that has built in the TMJ. This relaxation of the muscle can limit if not stop the popping sounds.
2. Mouth guards: If the jaw popping is a result of TMJ disorder, a dentist or orthodontist may recommend a mouthguard. This can help align the jaw and minimize popping sounds.
3. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen may help reduce pain associated with jaw popping.
4. Acupuncture: Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective treatment for the symptoms associated with TMJ disorder. It can also help reduce the force of the popping sound and the amount of frequency of the pops.
5. Stress management techniques: Stress is a major factor in TMJ disorder. Use stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to help limit the stress level in the body.
6. Avoid excessive chewing and talking: Excessive chewing and talking can put strain on the jaw that may result in jaw pain or jaw popping. It is important to be cognizant of how much talking and chewing is being done in a day and limit it.
Conclusion
Jaw popping can be a nuisance, but is generally not a sign of a serious problem. The most common cause of jaw popping is excessive talking and chewing, but other causes may be Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or a loose disk. There are many ways to address jaw popping including mouth guards, over-the-counter medication, and stress management techniques. If the popping is extreme and creates extreme pain, it is important to seek professional medical attention.
Overall, it is important to be aware of how much talking and chewing is being done and to try other treatments if the condition starts to create unmanageable pain or discomfort.