Do you ever notice a clicking or popping sound when you chew, yawn, or open your mouth wide? If so, you’re not alone. While an occasional click may seem harmless, consistent jaw noise could signal a developing issue with your temporomandibular joint—better known as TMJ.
At Novi Sleep & TMJl, we regularly help patients manage TMD symptoms (Temporomandibular Disorders) with non-surgical, comfortable treatment options. Whether your jaw clicks once in a while or frequently locks up, this guide will help you understand what’s going on, why it happens, and how to find relief.
What Causes Jaw Popping or Clicking?
That clicking or popping sound you’re hearing is typically caused by a misalignment or dysfunction of the TMJ, the small but complex joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. It acts as a hinge and allows you to speak, eat, and move your mouth smoothly.
When this joint becomes inflamed, out of alignment, or stressed, it may:
- Click or pop when opening/closing
- Shift slightly off-track
- Temporarily lock open or closed
- Cause jaw pain, headaches, or ear discomfort
These symptoms fall under the umbrella of TMJ disorder, or TMD.
Common Reasons Your Jaw Makes Noise
Here are several factors that may be contributing to that popping sensation in your jaw:
1. Joint Displacement or Misalignment
If the cushioning disc inside your TMJ slips out of position, your jaw joint may not move smoothly—causing that characteristic clicking or popping sound.
2. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)
Habitual grinding or clenching places significant pressure on the jaw joint, wearing down cartilage and straining muscles over time. This often happens at night, and many patients don’t realize they do it until symptoms appear.
3. Jaw Injury or Trauma
A fall, sports accident, or even whiplash can shift the jaw out of alignment and damage surrounding tissues, leading to persistent joint dysfunction.
4. Arthritis or Joint Degeneration
Like other joints in the body, the TMJ can suffer from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which break down the cartilage and reduce shock absorption—often accompanied by noise and pain.
5. Improper Bite (Malocclusion)
If your teeth don’t come together properly, the joint has to work harder to function, increasing the risk of TMD symptoms like popping, clicking, and soreness.
Is Jaw Clicking Always a Problem?
Not necessarily. Occasional jaw sounds without pain or restricted movement are usually not a cause for concern. However, if your symptoms include any of the following, it’s time to call your dentist:
- Frequent or painful clicking/popping
- Jaw that locks in an open or closed position
- Pain in the jaw, face, neck, or ears
- Headaches or migraines
- Trouble chewing or speaking
These could be signs of a developing TMJ disorder that requires professional evaluation.
How TMJ Disorders Are Diagnosed
At Novi Sleep & TMJl, Dr. Ely will perform a thorough TMJ evaluation, which may include:
- Medical and dental history review
- Physical examination of jaw movement
- Listening for joint sounds
- X-rays or 3D imaging to assess joint structure
Early diagnosis is key. The sooner we understand the cause of your jaw noise or discomfort, the easier it is to treat conservatively—often without surgery.
Treatment Options for a Clicking or Popping Jaw
The good news? Most TMJ disorders can be treated successfully with non-invasive therapies. Depending on your symptoms and diagnosis, your treatment plan may include:
1. Custom Nightguard or Splint
A nightguard (also called an occlusal splint) prevents grinding, relaxes the jaw muscles, and minimizes stress on the joint while you sleep.
2. Jaw Exercises and Physical Therapy
Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises improve joint flexibility and reduce discomfort. Dr. Ely may also refer you to a specialist if needed.
3. Bite Adjustment or Orthodontics
If your bite alignment is contributing to the issue, correcting it can relieve pressure on the TMJ and stop the clicking.
4. Stress Management Techniques
Since stress-induced clenching is a common trigger, mindfulness practices, relaxation exercises, and stress-reducing routines can help manage symptoms long term.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Support
In some cases, a short course of anti-inflammatory medication or muscle relaxants may help reduce swelling and ease pain as other treatments take effect.
Can You Prevent TMJ Clicking?
While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk of developing TMD symptoms by:
- Avoiding excessive gum chewing or nail biting
- Managing stress to reduce jaw tension
- Addressing teeth grinding with a custom nightguard
- Seeking early treatment if you notice jaw discomfort
The earlier you act, the easier it is to prevent minor symptoms from becoming chronic problems.
Why Choose Novi Sleep & TMJ for TMJ Relief?
If you’re experiencing jaw clicking, popping, or other TMD symptoms, the team at Novi Sleep & TMJ is here to help. Dr. Ely offers personalized treatment plans that focus on comfort, function, and long-term relief—without the need for surgery.
We believe in empowering patients with education, gentle care, and cutting-edge solutions for even the most complex jaw joint concerns.
Stop Living with Jaw Discomfort
Don’t let clicking, popping, or lockjaw interfere with your daily life. If your jaw makes noise, locks up, or causes pain when chewing or yawning, it’s time to get to the root of the problem.
📞 Call Novi Sleep & TMJ or schedule your consultation online to meet with Dr. Ely and explore your TMJ treatment options.
