6 Effective Strategies to Stop Jaw Popping and Locking
Experiencing jaw pain and dysfunction can significantly impact your daily life. You might find yourself wondering, "Why does my jaw keep locking?" If this is a recurring issue, it's important to address it promptly, as we've observed at our dental clinic in Calgary NE, where such conditions often worsen over time.
But first, let’s understand why you might be facing these jaw issues.
What Causes Jaw Popping or Locking?
Jaw popping or clicking noises often accompany pain and may be indicative of conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) or temporomandibular disorder (TMD). If the popping occurs without pain, it might not be urgent, but it's still wise to identify the underlying causes.
Various factors could be contributing to your jaw's behaviour, such as:
• Accidentally biting the inside of your cheeks or lips
• Habitually clenching or grinding your teeth
• Frequent gum chewing
• Additional factors include dental injuries, arthritis, sleep apnea, infections, bite misalignments, tumors, overstretching, issues with the temporomandibular joint itself, or myofascial pain syndrome.
Recognizing Symptoms of Jaw Dysfunction
Common symptoms of jaw popping and locking include:
• Persistent pain and discomfort
• Restricted ability to open the mouth fully
• Toothache, earache, and neck pain
• Facial swelling
• Soreness in the jaw, face, and neck area
• The jaw getting stuck in open or closed positions
Six Strategies to Manage Jaw Issues
Monitor Your Jaw Movements
Pay close attention to your jaw's movements. Avoid opening your mouth too wide or snapping it shut quickly to prevent aggravating the condition.
Minimize Jaw Tension
Try to keep your teeth slightly apart, especially if you tend to clench or grind your teeth. Reducing stress in the jaw muscles is crucial for relief.
Consult a Specialist
Discussing personalized relaxation techniques with a neuromuscular dentist could provide targeted solutions for your specific situation.
Improve Your Posture
Maintaining good posture benefits your entire body, including your jaw. Daily posture exercises can alleviate related pain.
Modify Your Diet
Opt for softer food choices and avoid tough or crunchy foods that exacerbate jaw issues. Foods like cooked vegetables, yogurts, and smoothies are preferable to raw vegetables and hard snacks.
Seek Long-Term Treatment
Consider consulting with a TMJ specialist who can offer a comprehensive evaluation and long-term treatment options tailored to your needs.
Address Your Jaw Problems Now
If you’re ready to tackle your jaw issues, don’t hesitate to contact our dental clinic in Calgary NE. For residents in the area, we are here to help assess your symptoms and discuss whether they warrant concern. Schedule a TMJ consultation today.