Causes Of A Locked Jaw

Posted on 9/11/2023 by Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center

We can empathize with how troublesome it may feel when you feel your jaw muscles tightening up. However, you should not be afraid of it since there are numerous potential explanations for your jaw to be locked, and in most situations, the causes are just temporary.

Several Things May Be Responsible For A Locked Jaw

Symptoms of a locked jaw may be experienced on either side of the face since it affects the whole mouth. The jaw becomes locked due to inflammation of the soft tissues in the area. When the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull, becomes stuck, discomfort, headaches, and clicking or popping noises result. In addition, the trigeminal nerve may be damaged by accidental mechanical stress to the jaw or by sloppy dental work. This nerve regulates the function of the facial muscles and may have a role in the development of lockjaw.

In addition, the jaw muscles may contract in a compensatory manner if the bite is not quite right, a condition known as "impaired occlusion." Repeatedly heightened muscle tone causes additional stress on the temporomandibular joint, leading to a locked jaw. In addition, sleep apnea causes the neck muscles to relax while the jaw clenches strongly to avoid obstructing the airway.

TMJ disorder and jaw locking are the effects of this additional strain. Tetanus is often thought to be the only cause of lockjaw. However, it is essential to remember that this bacterial infection is just one of several potential culprits. Long-lasting jaw muscular spasms have been linked to tetanus infections.

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Dental Blog | Livermore & Tracy CA | Michael Beckley DDS
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Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center, 1133 E Stanley Blvd #215, Livermore, CA 94550 ~ 925-290-7727 ~ pacificofs.com ~ 12/4/2024 ~ Tags: oral surgeon Livermore ~