A cracking jaw can be quite annoying and sometimes even painful. This cracking often occurs when chewing and has various causes. But is jaw popping really dangerous? What's behind it and how can you get rid of it? Here you can find out what clicking in the jaw joint means, what tips can help you and when it makes sense to seek professional treatment. JUST KFO - your specialist for orthodontics in Cologne - is here to help and advise you.
About the author
Dr. Julia Steinmaier
Specialist dentist for orthodontics
Owner of JUST KFO in Cologne, sought-after speaker and author who regularly appears in specialist publications and the media.
What happens when your jaw cracks when you chew?
The temporomandibular joint connects your lower jaw to the skull bone. It ensures that you can open and close your mouth. In between lies a small cartilage disc, the so-called discus, which serves as a buffer.
If this disc slips or the joint surfaces do not meet properly, it can crack. This often happens when you open your mouth or chew. Sometimes this is harmless, but it can also indicate problems that should not be ignored.
What are the causes of jaw popping?
There are many reasons why your jaw may crack. Here are the most common:
Stress and tension: If you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth, this can overload your jaw muscles.
Misaligned teeth: An incorrect bite can unbalance the temporomandibular joint.
Misaligned jaws: An underbite or overbite can put uneven strain on the temporomandibular joint.
Osteoarthritis or arthritis: joint wear and tear or inflammation can damage the temporomandibular joint.
Injuries or trauma: A blow to the jaw or an awkward movement can irritate the joint.
Get rid of jaw popping - these tips will help you!
1. relaxation exercises for the jaw
Sit comfortably and let your lower jaw hang loosely. Breathe in and out deeply without clenching your teeth. This can help to release tension in your jaw muscles and reduce the clicking sound.
2. stretching exercises for mobilization
Open your mouth wide and hold this position for a few seconds. Repeat this several times to improve the mobility of your jaw. These exercises can make chewing easier and reduce cracking.
3. heat treatment for muscle relaxation
A warm cherry stone cushion or a compress on your jaw area can relax tense muscles. But be careful: if you have inflammation, you should avoid heat!
4. gentle massages
Massage your jaw muscles with circular movements. This promotes blood circulation and can relieve tension. Massages can also help to relax the temporomandibular joint.
5. avoid exposure to certain foods
Chewing gum, hard candy or tough meat can put a lot of strain on your jaw joint. If you suffer from jaw popping, it is better to avoid these foods.
When should you consider professional treatment?
Home remedies and exercises can help, but they don't always solve the cause of jaw popping. If the clicking persists or is associated with pain, it is important to seek professional help. An examination at JUST KFO can help you find the right treatment.
Possible professional treatments:
Customized dental splints can relieve your jaw joint and reduce grinding.
Physiotherapy improves the mobility of your jaw and relieves tension.
Medication may be necessary for acute pain or inflammation.
Minimally invasive procedures such as injections into the temporomandibular joint sometimes help.
Surgical interventions are only necessary in severe cases.
Getting rid of jaw popping - Can it go away on its own?
If stress or tension is the cause, the problem can resolve itself. Jaw popping is a common phenomenon that affects many people. However, if the clicking lasts longer or if you experience pain, you should see an orthodontist.
Avoid jaw popping - how to prevent it
To prevent jaw popping, you can follow these tips:
Reduce stress: Relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation help to reduce unconscious teeth grinding.
Regular check-ups with your orthodontist: this way you can detect misalignments or the onset of complaints at an early stage.
Healthy sleep hygiene: Good sleep hygiene can reduce the strain on your lower jaw.
Adjust your diet: Soft foods relieve the strain on your jaw joint, especially if you have acute symptoms.
Conclusion: Get professional advice!
Jaw popping can be harmless, but it can also indicate serious problems with the temporomandibular joint. At JUST KFO in Cologneyou will receive a thorough examination and individual treatment options tailored to your needs. If you have persistent complaints, you should definitely see a dentist to clarify possible misaligned teeth or other problems. Make an appointment now and let our specialists advise you!
