Do you often hear a popping or clicking sound coming from your jaw? This could be a sign that something isn’t quite right. The cause of a jaw popping can range from something as simple as temporarily discomforting to something as complicated as a potentially serious condition. No matter the reason, it’s important to explore what might be causing the problem and to find a proper treatment. In this article, we’ll look at why your jaw may be popping, as well as some potential treatments.
Understanding Jaw Popping
The sound of jaw popping can often be a bit alarming, but it’s usually nothing to worry about. The most common cause of a jaw popping is a disc displacement, which is when the cushioning disc between the jaw and skull has become displaced, resulting in a clicking or popping sound when moving the jaw. However, jaw popping could also be caused by a number of other factors, including ligament surrounding the TMJ, teeth grinding or clenching at night, dental problems, and even stress.
Unfortunately, figuring out the exact cause of this can be tricky. However, your healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination, take X-rays, or possibly order an MRI or CT scan in order to gather a more detailed picture of what might be going on. All of these tools can help your healthcare provider to better understand the condition and create the best treatment plan.
Common Treatment Options
The specific treatments for jaw popping ultimately depend upon the underlying cause of the condition. Here are a few treatment options that are commonly used:
Resting the Jaw
In many cases, the most effective treatment for jaw popping is to try to avoid repetitive motions that could provoke a popping sound, such as yawning or opening your mouth too wide. Some healthcare providers will also recommend that you wear a splint or a nightguard for a period of time to help reduce pressure on the jaw.
Physical Therapy
If your jaw popping is due to a ligament issue, your healthcare provider may recommend that you work with a physical therapist to help improve jaw mobility and decrease pain and discomfort. Physical therapy exercises are used to stretch and strengthen the muscles, as well as to improve the alignment of the jaw.
Over-the-Counter Medications
In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be prescribed for the treatment of jaw popping. These medications help to reduce discomfort and inflammation in the area.
Steroid Injections
In more serious cases, or for those who haven’t found any relief from conservative treatments, your healthcare provider may recommend a steroid injection. These injections help to reduce inflammation surrounding the joint, as well as to alleviate discomfort.
Preventing Jaw Popping
After you’ve successfully treated your jaw popping, it’s important to create a plan in order to keep the problem from reoccurring. One of the best ways to prevent jaw popping, and other TMJ problems, is to take steps to reduce your overall stress. Stress can cause you to subconsciously clench and grind your teeth, which can place undue pressure on the jaw and lead to popping or other problems. In order to avoid this, try to get regular exercise, engage in mind-body activities such as yoga or meditation, and practice good oral hygiene.
Additionally, try to make sure that you are engaging in good habits when it comes to daily mouth movements. For example, resist the urge to chew gum, try avoid clenching your jaw, and try to keep your mouth appropriately aligned with your lower lip when yawning and speaking.
In Summary
Jaw popping can be caused by a number of different factors, including a disc displacement, ligament issues, and stress. While it is often not something to worry about, it’s important to have your healthcare provider perform a physical examination and gather any necessary tests to help them determine the underlying cause. Once the cause has been established, there are a number of treatments that can be used, including resting the jaw, physical therapy, over-the-counter medications, and steroid injections. Additionally, creating a plan in order to help reduce both stress and mouth movements is an important part of preventing the condition from reoccurring.
If you are experiencing jaw popping or clicking, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to explore what might be causing the problem and to determine what the best treatment may be. With proper treatment and self-care, it is possible to help reduce the occurrence of tejaw popping and live a more enjoyable and pain-free life.
