Jaw popping is a common symptom that can happen when opening or closing the mouth. Many people wonder “why does my jaw pop,” as it can be linked to conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint and nearby muscles.
In most cases, jaw popping is related to issues like temporomandibular dysfunction, bruxism, arthritis, or even facial trauma. It may also come with other symptoms such as headaches, ringing in the ears, or jaw stiffness.
Understanding why does my jaw pop is important to identify the underlying cause and seek proper treatment. Depending on the situation, care may involve simple exercises, lifestyle changes, dental devices, or medical treatment recommended by a doctor.
What causes jaw popping?
Jaw popping can be caused by:
1. Temporomandibular dysfunction
Temporomandibular dysfunction is a change in how the temporomandibular joint works, which controls opening and closing the mouth. It can cause symptoms like jaw locking and popping, headache, and ringing in the ears, which often leads people to wonder why does my jaw pop.
What to do: Treatment usually involves physical therapy sessions, using acrylic mouth guards at night or even during the day, and medications such as anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants to relieve pain, as prescribed by a dentist.
2. Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition where a person clenches or grinds the teeth constantly and excessively, creating pressure on the teeth and tension in the chewing muscles. This can cause stiffness and locking of the jaw, face, and neck, jaw pain, headaches, and tooth wear or looseness, and can be another reason for asking why does my jaw pop.
What to do: Treatment generally involves using a dental night guard to protect the temporomandibular joints, reduce pain and muscle tension, and prevent headaches.
3. Tetanus
Tetanus is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which enters the body through small wounds or burns. It can lead to muscle spasms and stiffness that may lock the jaw, along with fever.
What to do: Treatment includes administration of the vaccine to stimulate the immune system, followed by an injection that neutralizes the bacteria’s toxins. Doctors may also prescribe antibiotics and muscle relaxants.
4. Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects muscles and joints throughout the body. It can affect the size and movement of the jaw, causing pain, swelling, difficulty chewing, and jaw locking due to limited joint motion.
What to do: Treatment may include simple measures such as prioritizing soft foods, avoiding chewing gum, massaging the muscles around the joint, and practicing relaxation activities like meditation and yoga.
5. Facial trauma
Facial trauma from surgeries, car accidents, or contact sports can put pressure on the temporomandibular joint. This can cause jaw locking, pain, swelling, and facial paralysis.
What to do: Treatment may involve corrective surgery. Doctors may also prescribe anti-inflammatories to reduce inflammation, acetaminophen to relieve pain, and antibiotics in cases of wound contamination.
6. Medications
Jaw locking can be caused by the use of some medications, such as antipsychotics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, including fluoxetine, venlafaxine, and sertraline, and antiemetics such as metoclopramide, due to side effects that can trigger muscle stiffness.
What to do: It is recommended to consult the prescribing doctor to assess the possibility of adjusting the dose or replacing the medication.
How to relieve pain from jaw popping
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Apply warm compresses to the area for 15 to 20 minutes, with breaks, for a maximum of 45 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. The compress should always be wrapped in a thin cloth to avoid skin burns.
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Do gentle jaw stretching: open the mouth slowly, roll the tongue upward so the tip touches the front of the roof of the mouth, then close the mouth slowly while keeping the tongue on the roof of the mouth. Repeat this exercise 10 times, 2 to 3 times a day.
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Do the smile stretch: smile as much as possible without forcing or feeling pain or tension. While still smiling, try to open the jaw about 5 cm, inhale deeply through the mouth, and exhale. Repeat this exercise 10 times, 2 to 3 times a day.
It is not recommended to force the jaw with the hands. Although this may help unlock the jaw and relieve pain, it can damage the temporomandibular joint.
How to prevent jaw popping
Lightly massage the jaw area, do acupuncture sessions as indicated by a doctor, perform stretching exercises, and use oral splints during sleep. It is also important to reduce stress, since it causes muscle tension, which can be managed with leisure activities, meditation, and psychotherapy.