Jaw clicking: when it’s normal and when to see a doctor

A click or pop in the jaw when opening or closing the mouth is very common. Many people have it for years without any problem. Sometimes it comes with pain or locking. Here is how to tell the difference.

Where the click comes from

Inside the temporomandibular joint there is a small disc between the lower jaw and the skull. When the disc sits slightly forward, the jaw “jumps” over it as the mouth opens, and you hear a click. Medically, this is called disc displacement with reduction.

When it isn’t a problem

If the click doesn’t hurt, your mouth opens normally and your jaw has never locked, it usually doesn’t need treatment. It doesn’t necessarily “get worse” over time and isn’t a reason for dental work or for changing your bite.

When it is worth a consultation

• the click comes with pain, in front of the ear or in the cheek
• the click suddenly stopped, and now your mouth won’t open as wide (a possible lock)
• your jaw locks from time to time and has to be “unlocked”
• there is grating or crunching when your jaw moves
• the pain or noises stop you eating or talking normally

A recent lock, where the mouth won’t open, is best assessed as soon as possible.

What you can do meanwhile

• avoid very wide opening and hard or very chewy food
• give up chewing gum
• notice whether you clench during the day, and relax the muscles (“teeth apart, lips together”)

Read more under Temporomandibular disorders or book an orofacial pain consultation.