Clicking jaw

Overview

Clicking jaw is when you hear or feel a click or pop in your jaw joint when you open or close your mouth. The joint is called the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and is located just in front of your ears. Clicking is usually harmless, but can sometimes be a sign of a jaw problem.

Yes, clicking jaw is very common. Many people experience it at some point in their lives.

It can affect anyone, but it is more common in adults, especially women. People who grind their teeth or have stress are also more likely to have it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A clicking or popping sound when you open or close your mouth
• A feeling that the jaw is catching or skipping
• Pain or tenderness around the jaw joint, in the ear, or in the face
• Difficulty or discomfort when chewing or yawning

Symptoms in children

• Clicking without pain is common in children and usually not a concern.
• If your child complains of jaw pain or has trouble opening their mouth, consult a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Clicking in older adults may be linked to arthritis in the jaw joint.
• If clicking comes with joint stiffness, pain, or a grinding sensation, see a healthcare provider.

Causes

Main causes

• Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) itself, such as a displaced disc or inflammation
• Tightness or spasms of the chewing muscles
• Clenching or grinding your teeth, especially at night (bruxism)
• Arthritis (wear and tear or inflammation) in the jaw joint
• An uneven bite or missing teeth that changes how your jaw moves

Risk factors

• Stress and anxiety, which can lead to jaw clenching or teeth grinding
• Poor posture, especially hunched shoulders and forward head position
• Chewing gum frequently or chewing on hard objects like pens
• Having a dental condition such as an overbite or underbite
• A history of jaw injury or dislocation

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• See a doctor or dentist urgently if your jaw locks, you cannot move it, or you have severe pain.
• Also see a healthcare provider quickly if you have swelling, fever, or numbness in your face.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make a routine appointment if the clicking bothers you, causes pain, or affects eating.
• Also see your doctor if clicking has lasted more than a few weeks and does not get better.

Diagnosis

Your doctor or dentist will ask about your symptoms and examine your jaw. They may listen and feel for clicks as you open and close your mouth. They will also check your bite and the movement of your jaw.

Tests that may be done

• X-rays of your jaw to see the bones and joint
• MRI scan to get a detailed view of the soft tissues in the joint
• CT scan in rare cases to see the bones more clearly

What to expect at your appointment

Diagnosis is usually straightforward. Your doctor will press on the joint and ask you to move your jaw. If needed, they may refer you to a dentist or a specialist in jaw disorders.

Treatment

Most cases of clicking jaw improve with simple self-care. Treatment depends on whether there is pain or other symptoms. Your healthcare provider will help you find what works best for you.

Self-care at home

• Eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed vegetables to give your jaw a rest.
• Apply a warm compress or an ice pack to the side of your face for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
• Practice gentle jaw exercises as advised by your doctor or physiotherapist.
• Avoid chewing gum, tough meat, and hard candies.
• Try to keep your teeth slightly apart when your mouth is at rest (not clenching).
• Learn stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.

Medical treatments

If self-care does not help, your doctor may suggest over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen) for a short time. They might also prescribe muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory medicines. A dentist may make a mouthguard to protect your teeth if you grind them at night. Physical therapy, including exercises and massage, can also be very helpful. Some people benefit from counselling or relaxation therapy to reduce jaw clenching from stress.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for clicking jaw. It is only considered if other treatments do not work and you have severe pain or locking that affects your quality of life. Procedures can include arthrocentesis (flushing the joint) or, rarely, joint surgery. Your specialist will discuss all options with you.

Living with this condition

Living with clicking jaw is usually easy. Most people only need minor changes to their habits. Be mindful of what you do with your jaw – avoid yawning too wide, and support your chin when you yawn. Keep your jaw relaxed throughout the day.

Lifestyle tips

• Manage stress through activities like walking, yoga, or listening to music.
• Improve your posture, especially when sitting at a desk.
• Take breaks from repetitive activities like chewing gum or biting your nails.

Diet and exercise

Eat a soft or easy-to-chew diet if you have pain. Include foods like scrambled eggs, smoothies, and cooked vegetables. Avoid crunchy, chewy, or hard foods. Gentle jaw stretching exercises (as recommended by a physiotherapist) can help keep the joint flexible.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chronic jaw clicking with pain can sometimes cause frustration, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. It is important to address stress as it can make jaw problems worse. Talking to a counsellor or joining a support group can help.

Prevention

While you cannot always prevent clicking jaw, you can reduce your risk by avoiding habits that strain your jaw. Try not to clench your teeth during the day, avoid chewing on pens or ice, and practice good posture. Managing stress is key to preventing teeth grinding and jaw tension.

Complications

If left untreated

• If clicking is linked to a TMJ disorder and not treated, it can lead to chronic jaw pain or headaches.
• Some people may develop a locked jaw (unable to open or close) that needs urgent care.
• Ongoing clenching or grinding can wear down teeth and cause toothaches or damage.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for clicking jaw is very good. Most people improve with simple self-care and time. Even if pain or locking develops, treatments such as mouthguards, physiotherapy, and relaxation techniques are very effective. Serious complications are rare. With the right care, nearly everyone can return to normal activities.

Find support

Local organisations

• Your local NHS dental service or GP surgery · UK

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