A clicking jaw can be quite bothersome and sometimes even painful. This clicking often occurs while chewing and can have various causes. But is a clicking jaw really dangerous? What’s behind it, and how can you get rid of it? In many cases, targeted TMD can help with jaw problems. Here, you’ll learn what clicking in the temporomandibular joint means, what tips can help you, and when it makes sense to seek professional treatment. JUST KFO – your orthodontic specialist in Cologne – is here to offer you advice and support.
What happens if your jaw cracks when you chew?
The temporomandibular joint connects your lower jaw to the skull. It allows you to open and close your mouth. Between them is a small disc of cartilage, known as the disc, which acts as a cushion.
If this disc slips out of place or the joint surfaces don't align properly, you may hear a clicking sound. This often happens when you open your mouth or chew. Sometimes it's harmless, but it can also indicate problems that shouldn't be ignored.
What are the causes of jaw popping?
There are many reasons why your jaw might click. Here are the most common ones:
- Stress and tension: If you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth, it can strain 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.
How to Stop Jaw Clicking—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 relieve tension in your jaw muscles and reduce the clicking.
2. stretching exercises for mobilization
Open your mouth wide and hold that position for a few seconds. Repeat this several times to improve the mobility of your jaw. These exercises can make chewing easier and reduce the clicking sound.
3. heat treatment for muscle relaxation
A warm cherry pit pillow or a warm compress placed on your jaw area can help relax tense muscles. But be careful: If you have inflammation, you should avoid applying heat!
4. gentle massages
Massage your jaw muscles using circular motions. This promotes blood circulation and can relieve tension. Massages can also help relax the temporomandibular joint.
5. avoid exposure to certain foods
Chewing gum, hard candies, or tough meat can put a lot of strain on your jaw joint. If you suffer from jaw clicking, it's best to avoid these foods.
When should you consider seeking professional treatment?
Home remedies and exercises can help, but they don't always address the underlying cause of jaw clicking. If the clicking persists or is accompanied by pain, it's important to seek professional help. An examination at JUST KFO can help you find the right treatment. Learn more on our page about TMD.
Possible professional treatments:
- Custom-fitted dental splints can relieve pressure on your temporomandibular joint and reduce teeth grinding.
- Physical therapy 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 may resolve on its own. Jaw clicking is a common occurrence that affects many people. However, if the clicking persists or you experience pain, you should see an orthodontist.
Avoiding Jaw Clicking – How to Prevent It
To prevent jaw clicking, you can follow these tips:
- Reduce stress: Relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation help to reduce unconscious teeth grinding.
- Regular checkups with your orthodontist: This is how you can detect misalignments or early signs of discomfort.
- Healthy Sleep Hygiene: Good sleep hygiene can reduce the strain on your lower jaw.
- Adjust Your Diet: Soft foods put less strain on your temporomandibular joint, especially when you're experiencing acute symptoms.
When to See a Specialist for Jaw Clicking
Jaw clicking can be harmless, but it can also indicate serious temporomandibular joint problems. At JUST Orthodontics in Cologne, you’ll receive a thorough examination and personalized treatment options tailored to your needs. If your symptoms persist, you should definitely see a dentist to rule out possible misaligned teeth or other issues . Schedule an appointment now and get advice from our specialists!
- Schupp, W., Haubrich, J., & Funke, J. (2020). Treatment with occlusal splints and their fabrication using a digital workflow. Informationen aus Orthodontie & Kieferorthopädie, 52(3), 227–231. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1200-5934
- Schiffman, E., Ohrbach, R., Truelove, E., et al. (2014). Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) for Clinical and Research Applications. Journal of Oral & Facial Pain and Headache, 28(1), 6–27. https://doi.org/10.11607/jop.1151
- German Society for Functional Diagnostics and Therapy (DGFDT) & DGZMK. S3 Guideline: Diagnosis and Treatment of Bruxism. AWMF Registry No. 083-027 (2019). awmf.org
- Schupp, W., Haubrich, J., & Neumann, I. (2010). Invisalign of patients with craniomandibular disorders. International Orthodontics, 8(3), 253–267. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ortho.2010.07.010
Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Clicking
Is jaw clicking dangerous?
Occasional, painless clicking is common and usually harmless. However, if it occurs regularly or is accompanied by pain, limited mouth opening, or stiffness, it should be evaluated by a specialist.
What are the most common causes of jaw clicking?
Often, the underlying cause is a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is often the underlying cause, such as teeth grinding, stress, a malocclusion, or overuse of the masticatory muscles. A functional analysis can determine the exact cause.
Can jaw clicking go away on its own?
Sometimes, yes—especially if it’s caused by temporary overexertion or stress. If the condition persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain or difficulty opening your mouth, it’s a good idea to get it checked out—this will help determine whether treatment is necessary at all and which option is right for you.
What helps with jaw clicking?
Depending on the cause, relief for the masticatory muscles, targeted exercises, physical therapy, a bite splint, or correction of an underlying malocclusion may help. A thorough diagnosis is always the first step.
Which medical specialty treats jaw clicking?
The first points of contact are orthodontists and dentists who specialize in temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Depending on the cause, we collaborate with physical therapists or orthopedists as part of an interdisciplinary approach.
Dr. Julia Steinmaier
Specialist in orthodontics. Owner of JUST KFO Cologne, a sought-after speaker and author who regularly contributes to professional publications and the media.
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