Have you ever wondered, “Will TMJ cause my jaw to pop?” If you’re experiencing strange jaw noises, you’re not alone! Many people hear popping or clicking sounds when they open or close their mouths, and this is often connected to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. In general dentistry, we see patients with this condition all the time.
Your jaw joint, which links the lower jaw to the skull, is super important for daily activities like chewing, talking, and even yawning. When something’s off with this joint, it can lead to some odd sensations and sounds. If you’re noticing jaw popping or clicking, contact Town & Country Dental in Oak Park, IL, at (708) 383-0330 to explore TMJ treatment with Dr. Thomas Wegner.
So, will TMJ cause my jaw to pop? The short answer is: yes, it can. When the muscles around the jaw joint are strained or when the disc inside the joint moves out of place, it can lead to that popping noise you might hear. But don’t worry, we’re going to break down what’s going on in there and how you can manage it.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, and TMJ disorder refers to any problem that affects this joint and the muscles surrounding it. You might experience jaw pain, difficulty moving your jaw, headaches, or popping and clicking sounds.
But will TMJ cause my jaw to pop all the time? Not necessarily. Studies suggest that clicking and popping are among the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder. But some people hear occasional pops, while others experience it more regularly, especially when chewing or yawning.
The popping happens when the disc inside the joint shifts out of alignment. Think of it like a door hinge that doesn’t open smoothly – it squeaks or clicks. The jaw joint can do the same thing when it’s not working correctly.
Other Symptoms of TMJ
In addition to the popping sound, TMJ can cause a wide range of symptoms. These may include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Headaches or earaches
- Stiffness in your jaw muscles
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- A locked jaw
While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, you’re not powerless! Dr. Wegner can help you manage TMJ disorder, keeping that annoying popping sound at bay.
What Can You Do About It?
Now that we’ve answered “Will TMJ cause my jaw to pop?” let’s talk solutions. General dentistry offers several ways to manage TMJ symptoms. You might benefit from:
- A custom mouthguard that reduces pressure on your jaw
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint
- Stress-relief techniques
You can also make small lifestyle changes, like avoiding hard or chewy foods that strain your jaw. If the popping is accompanied by pain, it’s important to seek treatment. The sooner you address TMJ disorder, the less likely it is to get worse.
See Our Dentist in Oak Park, IL
If you find yourself asking “Will TMJ cause my jaw to pop?” more often, and it’s accompanied by pain or other symptoms, it’s time to visit our general dentist in Oak Park, IL. Request a visit online or call Town & Country Dental at (708) 383-0330 to get relief today!