Why Does Your Jaw Click When You Move It?
Posted on 10/1/2025 by Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center |
 Have you ever experienced a clicking sound in your jaw when you open or close your mouth, chew, or yawn? This clicking, often accompanied by pain or discomfort, is commonly known as clicking jaw. While it might seem alarming, clicking jaw is usually not a serious medical concern. However, it can be quite irritating and may even interfere with your ability to eat or speak comfortably.
So, why does your jaw click? And what can you do about it? Let's delve into the causes and potential solutions for this common condition.
Causes of Clicking Jaw
The clicking sound in your jaw is typically caused by one of two main reasons:
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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: This is the most common cause of clicking jaw. The TMJ is the hinge joint that connects your lower jawbone to your skull. It contains a small disc made of cartilage that helps your jaw move smoothly. When this disc is displaced or damaged, it can cause clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw. |
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Arthritis: This degenerative joint disease can affect any joint in your body, including the TMJ. As the cartilage in the TMJ wears down, it can become inflamed and cause pain and clicking. |
Less common causes of clicking jaw include:
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Loose ligaments: The ligaments surrounding the TMJ can become stretched or weakened, allowing the jawbone to move out of alignment and cause clicking. |
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Muscle tension: Tightness in the muscles around the jaw can also contribute to clicking. |
Should You Worry About Clicking Jaw?
While clicking jaw is usually not a serious medical condition, it can be a sign of an underlying problem that needs attention. If you experience clicking jaw along with any of the following symptoms, it's important to see a doctor or dentist:
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Pain in the jaw, face, or neck |
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Difficulty opening or closing your mouth |
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Locking of the jaw |
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Swelling in the jaw area |
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Headaches |
Treatment Options for Clicking Jaw
The treatment for clicking jaw will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. Some common treatment options include:
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Conservative measures: This may include avoiding activities that aggravate your jaw, applying ice packs, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. |
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Mouthguards: Wearing a mouthguard can help to protect your TMJ and reduce clicking. |
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Physical therapy: This can help to strengthen the muscles around your jaw and improve overall jaw function. |
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Medication: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants. |
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Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary for clicking jaw, but it may be an option if other treatments have not been successful. |
Maintaining Good Oral Care
Taking good care of your oral health is essential for preventing and managing clicking jaw. This includes:
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Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly: This helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to TMJ problems. |
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Seeing your dentist for regular checkups: Your dentist can monitor your oral health and identify any potential problems early on. |
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Avoiding habits that can aggravate your jaw: This includes chewing gum, biting your nails, and clenching your jaw. |
Restorative Dentistry and Clicking Jaw
In some cases, clicking jaw may be caused by missing or damaged teeth. Restorative dentistry procedures, such as crowns, bridges, or implants, can help to restore proper jaw alignment and reduce clicking.
Conclusion
Clicking jaw is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. While it is usually not a serious medical concern, it can be a nuisance and may indicate an underlying problem. If you experience clicking jaw, it is important to see a doctor or dentist for diagnosis and treatment. By taking good care of your oral health and following your doctor's recommendations, you can manage clicking jaw and improve your overall oral health.
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Livermore: 925-290-7727
