When you open or close your mouth, do you hear a clicking or popping sound? When this happens, it is likely a symptom of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. Should you experience such symptoms, a visit to a professional for the TMJ in NE Calgary can help identify what is causing the issue and how to treat it.
What Causes Jaw Clicking?
Jaw clicking is a sound that you hear when the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull, moves abnormally. Some of the common causes are
- TMJ disorders: A misalignment or dysfunction of the jaw joint is likely to cause a popping sound.
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth: Bruxism exerts pressure on the jaw joint.
- Injury or trauma: Accidents or blows to the jaw can lead to limited joint movement.
- Arthritis: The breakdown of the joint cartilage can cause the joint to click.
- Stress: A tense jaw muscle may cause a popping sensation or discomfort.
If the root cause is recognized early, the symptoms will not get worse, and healthy jaw function will be easier to maintain.
When to See a Dental Clinic?
If your jaw keeps clicking frequently and you also have pain, then it is recommended that a specialist not only see your symptoms but also examine them. Our dental clinic in NE Calgary is equipped to provide precise diagnosis and individualized treatment planning.
In the process of examining you, the dentist will identify if the bite is the source of TMJ disorders that lead to pain and suggest methods that can ease the pain and keep the affected area safe.
Jaw Clicking on One Side: What It Means
When a sudden jaw click happens at a single location, it signals that there is jaw movement that is not symmetrical, the displacement of the articular disc, or the uneven tension of the jaw muscles. While a click can be quite frequent, it should be noted that a click which is persistent on one side may cause incidents.
- Body and face aches, neck, and shoulder areas
- Stiffness of the jaw and restricted movement
- Elevated chance of joint wear if the condition is not treated
- Uncomfortable chewing or speaking because of the problem
- Do not let the problem become bigger; get the right help
What are the Jaw Clicking Treatment Options
Jaw clicking treatment has multiple methods. The different methods are based on the degree of clicking and the cause of the problem:
- Lifestyle changes: Stress reduction, refraining from eating hard or chewy foods, and doing jaw relaxation exercises.
- Night guards or bite splints: They primarily serve to protect teeth from grinding and also to relieve joint pressure.
- Physical therapy: The goal of the exercises is to lengthen, strengthen, and loosen the jaw muscles to improve movement.
- Medication: The use of anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants can be of short-term help only.
- Surgery: In extreme cases, there are some minimally invasive procedures which can solve structural problems.
A dentist will know what is best for you depending on your signs and lifestyle.
How to Fix TMJ Permanently?
The chances of a permanent solution depend on the cause of your TMJ issues. If the problem is structural, you may need to get braces or corrective surgery. If you change your lifestyle or use a protective appliance along with TMJ treatment near you, the chances of long-lasting relief will be greater.
Take Care of Your Jaw Health – Visit Today!
Continuous jaw pain should be a concern that is not ignored in any case. Without a doubt, Sunridge Landing Dental Care is reachable to offer the right interventions that will not only relieve the pain, restore your normal comfort, and also take care of your dental health. Visit to see the benefits of painlessness and good dental health.
FAQs
Is jaw clicking always a sign of TMJ disorder?
No. Infrequent clicking can happen in normal joints without pain.
Can stress cause jaw clicking?
Indeed, stress on muscles can bring out popping or slight discomfort in the area.
Are there exercises to reduce jaw clicking?
Jaw relaxation and gentle stretching can increase the range of joint movement and thus help the jaw.
Should I worry if my jaw clicks but doesn’t hurt?
If the ear clicks from time to time and there is no pain, it is usually fine, but it is still worthwhile to see a dentist if this changes.