Why Does Your Jaw Click When You Move It?

Posted on 4/10/2020 by Dr McMurray

Have you ever noticed a clicking sound in your jaw? It can happen while you are chewing on food or while you are talking to someone. For some, their clicks occur when they move their jaw for any reason at all. There may or may not be other symptoms involved when you hear that clicking, but it is worth taking some time to learn the possible reasons behind it. You may also learn what you can do about it.

Jaw Clicking and TMJ

One of the most common reasons for a clicking sound when you move your jaw is temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). This is a condition that affects the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. If it is not properly aligned on both sides, it can cause a variety of symptoms that include pain, swelling and clicking sounds in the jaw. It is also possible that the jaw clicking is simply the result of opening the mouth in a way that throws the joint out of place. Yawning or eating something large can also knock it out of place.

Facts about the Clicking Sound

The first time you hear a clicking sound you may worry, or you may not even realize it happened. The key thing to know is that if there is no pain associated with the sound, it is not usually something to worry about. When there is no pain, it is possible to treat the jaw clicking at home. Exercises or stretching can help resolve the problem. If there is some condition such as TMJ disorder, medical treatment is a possibility. The only way to know for sure if the jaw clicking you hear is the sign of a different problem is to discuss it when you come in for a visit to determine the possible causes. Call us to schedule an appointment today.

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