Jaw clicking can be a symptom of several conditions that affect your jaw joints, ortemporomandibularjoints (TMJ).
Sometimes jaw clicking resolves on its own, without treatment.
In the most severe cases, surgery might be required.
Eugenio Marongiu / Getty Images
These joints can be felt just below the end of your cheekbones, in front of your ears.
You might also hear an audible “click” sound with this popping.
Other symptoms often occur with jaw clicking, depending on the underlying cause.
These can include:
Who Is Affected by TMDs?
Around 11 million to 12 million people in the United States have had temporomandibular pain.
TMDs most commonly affect women aged 35 to 44 years.
What Causes Jaw Clicking?
There are three main groups of temporomandibular joint disorders.
Unlike OA, rheumatoid arthritis typically affects both jaw joints simultaneously.
Clicking is a common symptom of RA in the jaw.
Around 20% to 40% of people with rheumatoid arthritis will have TMJ involvement.
Disc Disorders
The upper jaw bone and skull form the temporomandibular joints.
Between the bones is a piece of cartilage called a disc.
Jaw clicking occurs in the majority of people with disc disorders.
Muscle Disorders
Jaw clicking can occur from disorders that affect the muscles used for chewing.
Examples include:
Clicking Without Pain
Jaw clicking often occurs without pain and can even be normal.
In these cases, treatment is not necessary.
How Is Jaw Clicking Treated?
Treatment for jaw clicking depends on the underlying cause.
Sometimes, temporomandibular joint issues resolve on their own without treatment.
Your therapist will evaluate your jaw and prescribe specific exercises based on the underlying issue.
Modalities such asultrasoundorelectrical stimulationcan also reduce pain and inflammation.
Dentists and other healthcare providers also provide a variety of treatments for TMDs.
How Is Jaw Clicking Diagnosed?
Jaw clicking can be felt by placing fingers on the jaw joints during movement.
In some cases, it can also be heard.
There are no specific tests for diagnosing jaw clicking.
TMDs are diagnosed by physical examusually by a dentist or physical therapist.
Summary
Jaw clicking is common and can be normal.
There are no specific tests to diagnose TMDs.
These conditions are diagnosed with a physical examination by a healthcare provider.
Imaging can provide additional information about joint damage that has occurred.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.TMD (temporomadibular disorders).
2022;14(4):282. doi:10.3390/toxins14040282
