Why Does the Jaw Click?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull, located just in front of each ear. It is one of the most frequently used joints in the body, facilitating everyday functions such as speaking, chewing, and yawning. Within the joint, a small disc of cartilage — the articular disc — acts as a cushion between the jawbone and the skull, allowing smooth, coordinated movement.
Clicking or popping sounds typically occur when this disc shifts from its usual position and then snaps back into place as the jaw moves. The sound itself is produced by the disc relocating, rather than by bone-on-bone contact. Several factors can contribute to this displacement:
Disc Displacement
The articular disc — a small, flexible pad of cartilage — sits between the bones of the temporomandibular joint. If the disc shifts from its usual position, it may snap back into place during jaw movement, producing an audible click or pop.
Muscle Tension
Tightness in the muscles that control jaw movement can alter the way the joint functions. Increased muscle tension — whether from stress, clenching, or habitual jaw tightening — may contribute to irregular joint movement and associated sounds.
Bite Imbalance
When the teeth do not come together evenly, the jaw may need to shift slightly to find a comfortable closing position. This compensatory movement can place asymmetric strain on the joint, contributing to clicking.
Joint Strain or Overloading
Habits such as wide yawning, prolonged chewing, or resting the chin on the hand may place additional strain on the temporomandibular joint, which can contribute to joint noise over time.
When Jaw Clicking May Be Harmless
Not all jaw clicking requires investigation or treatment. Many people experience occasional joint noises that are simply a feature of normal joint movement and do not indicate underlying dysfunction. The following characteristics generally suggest that clicking is unlikely to be a cause for concern:
- The clicking occurs occasionally rather than with every jaw movement
- There is no pain or tenderness associated with the sound
- You can open and close your mouth fully without restriction
- There is no swelling around the jaw joint area
- The clicking does not appear to be worsening over time
Even if clicking appears harmless, it is reasonable to mention it at your next routine dental appointment so your dentist can note it and monitor for any changes over time.
When Clicking May Indicate TMD
Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is a term used to describe a group of conditions affecting the jaw joints and the muscles that control jaw movement. Clicking may be one feature of TMD, particularly when it is accompanied by other symptoms. The following signs may suggest that further assessment is appropriate:
Jaw Pain or Tenderness
Pain in or around the jaw joint — particularly when chewing, speaking, or opening the mouth — may suggest that the joint or surrounding muscles are under strain.
Headaches
Recurring headaches, especially around the temples or sides of the head, may be related to muscle tension associated with temporomandibular dysfunction.
Ear Discomfort
A sensation of fullness, aching, or ringing in the ears can sometimes accompany TMD, as the temporomandibular joint is located very close to the ear canal.
Limited Mouth Opening
Difficulty opening the mouth fully, or a feeling that the jaw catches or deviates to one side during opening, may indicate joint dysfunction.
Jaw Locking
Episodes where the jaw becomes temporarily stuck in an open or closed position — even briefly — suggest that the disc may be displacing in a way that intermittently blocks normal joint movement.
The presence of these symptoms does not necessarily confirm TMD. A dental assessment can help clarify the cause and determine whether treatment may be beneficial.
Why Assessment by a Dentist Is Important
Jaw clicking that is persistent or accompanied by discomfort warrants professional assessment. A dentist experienced in TMJ evaluation can examine the jaw joints, surrounding muscles, and bite relationship to determine whether dysfunction is present and what may be contributing to the symptoms.
The assessment may include palpation of the jaw muscles and joints to identify areas of tenderness or irregularity, evaluation of jaw range of motion and any deviation during opening, and a thorough review of how the teeth come together. Bite imbalance — where the teeth do not meet evenly — is a common contributor to joint strain and may be identified during this process.
Where indicated, dental imaging may be used to provide a more detailed view of the joint structures. Your dentist may also enquire about habits such as clenching, grinding, or prolonged gum chewing, as these can contribute to muscle tension and joint overloading.
Identifying and addressing contributing factors early may help reduce the risk of symptoms progressing and support more comfortable long-term jaw function.
Conservative Management Options
Management of jaw clicking depends on the findings of your dental assessment and the severity of any associated symptoms. In most cases, conservative approaches are recommended as a first step. These aim to support comfortable jaw function and may help reduce joint strain:
Bite Assessment
A thorough evaluation of how the teeth come together can identify areas of uneven contact that may be contributing to joint strain and clicking. Adjustments may be recommended where appropriate.
Custom-Made Splint or Night Guard
A professionally fitted occlusal splint may help redistribute bite forces, reduce muscle tension, and limit the strain placed on the jaw joints — particularly during sleep when clenching or grinding may occur.
Symptom Monitoring
Where clicking is mild and not associated with pain or functional limitation, your dentist may recommend monitoring the symptoms over time to assess whether they change or progress.
Restoration Adjustments
If existing dental restorations — such as crowns or fillings — are contributing to bite imbalance, your dentist may adjust or replace them to help achieve a more even bite relationship.
Treatment outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Conservative management aims to improve comfort and protect the joint, but no treatment can guarantee complete resolution of joint noises.
Professional TMJ Assessment
If you experience persistent jaw clicking — especially if accompanied by pain, stiffness, or difficulty opening your mouth — a professional assessment can help determine whether temporomandibular dysfunction is present and whether conservative treatment may be appropriate for your situation.
Your dentist may recommend TMJ treatment to address joint-related symptoms, a general dental assessment to evaluate your bite and overall dental health, or an emergency dental assessment if symptoms are acute.
Assessment for jaw clicking and TMJ-related symptoms is available at our London clinics. You can attend our South Kensington dental clinic or our City of London clinic near St Paul's for a professional dental evaluation.
