The temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, connect your lower jaw to your skull just in front of your ears. They allow you to open, close and move your jaw from side to side. Problems with these joints and the surrounding muscles can cause pain, clicking and headaches. Your dentist can check for these problems during routine visits.
Symptoms include pain in the jaw, face or around the ear, clicking or popping when opening the mouth, difficulty opening wide, a jaw that locks, headaches, and tired jaw muscles, particularly in the morning.
Teeth grinding and clenching, stress, bite problems, injury to the jaw and arthritis can all contribute. Long periods of chewing gum or habits like nail biting may also strain the muscles.
Your dentist may feel the jaw muscles and joints, listen for clicking, measure how wide you can open, and look for signs of grinding such as worn teeth.
Eating softer foods, avoiding chewing gum, applying warm compresses, practising relaxation techniques and gentle jaw exercises can help many people.
A custom night guard can reduce the effects of grinding and clenching, protecting teeth and relaxing jaw muscles.
If symptoms persist, your dentist may refer you to a specialist or recommend physiotherapy. Imaging may be needed in some cases.
Stress is a common trigger for clenching and grinding. Managing stress through exercise, sleep and relaxation can reduce symptoms.
Seek prompt advice if your jaw locks open or closed, if pain is severe or worsening, or if you notice swelling, fever or changes in your bite. These symptoms need assessment to identify the cause and start appropriate treatment early, which often leads to quicker relief.
Not all jaw pain comes from the joints or muscles. Toothache, especially from back teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, sinus problems, ear infections and occasionally heart problems can cause pain in the jaw area. Sudden jaw pain with chest pain, shortness of breath or sweating needs urgent medical attention. Your dentist will consider dental and non-dental causes when assessing jaw pain and refer you to a doctor if needed.
Small changes can reduce strain on your jaw. Cut food into smaller pieces, avoid very chewy foods such as tough meat and chewy sweets, and avoid opening your mouth very wide when yawning or biting large sandwiches. Keep your teeth slightly apart and your jaw relaxed during the day. Good posture, especially when working at a computer, can also reduce tension in the jaw and neck muscles.
Jaw clicking and discomfort can also occur in children and teenagers, sometimes linked to grinding, orthodontic treatment or sports injuries. Mention any symptoms at their next check-up.
Clicking without pain is common. Pain, locking or difficulty opening should be checked.
Yes, especially if grinding or clenching contributes.
Yes. Stress often leads to clenching and muscle tension.
Book a check-up if you have jaw pain or clicking. Learn more about check-ups and cleaning in Al Ain.
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