Cracking jaw

Overview

A cracking jaw, also known as a popping or clicking jaw, is when you hear or feel a click, pop, or grinding sensation when you open or close your mouth. It often comes from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. Usually it is not serious, but it can sometimes be a sign of a jaw problem.

Yes, it is quite common. Many people experience a clicking or popping jaw at some point in their lives, especially when opening the mouth wide.

It can affect anyone, but it is most common in young adults and women. People who grind their teeth or have a lot of stress are more likely to have it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A click or pop when opening or closing your mouth
• A grating or grinding sound when moving your jaw
• Feeling like your jaw gets stuck or locked briefly
• Mild discomfort or ache around your ear, jaw, or face

Symptoms in children

• A clicking sound when chewing or yawning
• Complaints of a tired or sore jaw, especially after eating
• Chewing on one side of the mouth or difficulty opening wide

Symptoms in older adults

• A crack or grind that may be more noticeable with arthritis
• Stiffness in the jaw, especially in the morning
• Pain that radiates to the ear or side of the head

Causes

Main causes

• The cushioning disc inside your jaw joint moves out of place
• Tight or overworked jaw muscles from clenching or grinding
• Arthritis in the jaw joint, which can cause wearing down of the joint
• Injury to the jaw, face, or neck
• Misaligned teeth or an uneven bite

Risk factors

• Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night (bruxism)
• High stress levels that cause you to tense your jaw
• Poor posture, especially forward head posture
• Chewing gum or biting your nails often
• Having certain types of arthritis or connective tissue disorders

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Your jaw is locked and you cannot move it at all
• You have severe pain that does not improve with rest
• You have swelling or fever along with jaw symptoms

Book a routine appointment if:

• The clicking or popping lasts for more than a few weeks
• You have mild pain or discomfort when eating or talking
• You notice your jaw is getting stiffer or harder to open

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and examining your jaw. They will watch and feel how your jaw moves when you open and close your mouth, and they may press around your jaw joint to check for tenderness.

Tests that may be done

• A dental examination to check your bite and teeth
• X-rays of your jaw or teeth to look for joint or bone problems
• An MRI scan to see the soft tissues and disc inside the joint
• A CT scan in rare cases to see the bones more clearly

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask you questions about when the cracking happens, any pain, and what makes it better or worse. They will also check your neck and shoulders, as posture can affect your jaw.

Treatment

For most people, jaw cracking gets better on its own with simple self-care measures. Treatment focuses on resting the jaw, reducing muscle tension, and protecting the joint. If symptoms persist, your doctor can recommend other options.

Self-care at home

• Eat soft foods to give your jaw a rest
• Avoid chewing gum, ice cubes, or hard candies
• Apply a warm compress or ice pack to the side of your face for 10-15 minutes
• Gently massage your jaw muscles near your ear
• Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress and teeth grinding

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce discomfort. Always follow the dosage instructions and ask your pharmacist for advice. They might also suggest a mouth guard to wear at night if you grind your teeth. In some cases, referral to a dentist or physiotherapist for exercises or a specialist for corticosteroid injections can help.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery on the jaw joint is very rarely needed. It may be considered only if other treatments have not worked and you have severe pain or trouble eating and speaking.

Living with this condition

Managing a cracking jaw often means being mindful of how you use your jaw. Avoid wide yawning (support your chin with your hand), take small bites, and keep your teeth slightly apart when your mouth is relaxed.

Lifestyle tips

• Try to reduce stress through deep breathing or meditation
• Maintain good posture, especially when sitting at a desk
• Limit gum chewing and nail biting
• If you clench your jaw during the day, place a gentle reminder (like a sticky note) to relax your face

Diet and exercise

Eat a soft diet when symptoms flare—think mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and soups. You can gradually add firmer foods as you improve. Gentle jaw exercises (like slowly opening and closing your mouth without clicking) can help keep the joint moving. Ask your doctor or physiotherapist for safe exercises.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with ongoing jaw discomfort can be frustrating and may cause anxiety or stress. It is normal to feel worried, but most cases improve. If the condition affects your mood or daily life, talk to your doctor—they can help you find ways to cope.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent a cracking jaw, but you can lower your risk by avoiding habits that strain the jaw. Keep your jaw relaxed during the day, chew evenly on both sides, and manage stress. If you grind your teeth, a mouth guard may help protect your jaw.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain in the jaw, face, or ear
• Limited ability to open your mouth wide (trismus)
• Worsening of jaw joint damage over time, such as arthritis

Long-term outlook

The outlook for a cracking jaw is very good. Most people get better with simple self-care or minor treatment, and serious problems are rare. With the right care, nearly everyone can return to normal eating and speaking without pain.

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