TMJ Clicking: Why Does My Jaw Click?

A clicking or popping sound on opening or closing the mouth is among the most frequent complaints related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When the sound occurs without accompanying pain, it is often overlooked. However, the sound itself can carry information about structural relationships within the joint.

Mechanism of the Clicking Sound

Within the TMJ, an articular disc lies between the condyle of the mandible and the glenoid fossa. The disc normally glides in coordination with condylar motion. When disc position or movement is altered, a brief jump occurs during opening. This jump is perceived as a click. The sound may occur once or twice during the opening cycle, and its position within the range of motion varies.

Is Clicking Always a Problem?

A clicking sound on its own does not necessarily indicate a condition requiring intervention. In the absence of pain, restricted opening or joint locking, clinical monitoring may be sufficient. However, recent onset, increasing frequency or transition to a painful click represents a meaningful change. In such cases, detailed evaluation under TMJ treatment is planned.

Contributing Factors

Several factors may initiate or amplify joint sounds:

• Bruxism (involuntary clenching or grinding during sleep)
• Frequent gum chewing or unilateral chewing habits
• History of trauma to the jaw
• Prolonged mouth opening during long procedures or under anesthesia
• Stress and associated muscular tension
• Tooth loss or occlusally incompatible restorations

When bruxism is also present, assessment is combined with the approach described under bruxism treatment. These two conditions frequently overlap, and joint evaluation alongside bruxism findings clarifies the clinical decision.

Additional Findings to Consider

During clinical history, the onset of the sound, the movements that trigger it and accompanying symptoms are reviewed. Notable findings include reduced opening range, a sensation of catching, pain during chewing or tension in the temporal region. When several of these are present, evaluation is brought forward.

Clinical Assessment

TMJ assessment begins with examination. Opening and closing motion, joint palpation, muscle tenderness and occlusal relationships are reviewed. When indicated, panoramic radiography or MRI may be requested. Findings are interpreted as a whole to guide the approach. Detailed information is provided on the TMJ treatment page.

When to Avoid Delay

When the jaw catches during opening, when opening range is markedly reduced or when chewing pain is recurrent, evaluation should not be postponed. These findings reflect intra-articular conditions, and earlier assessment generally allows a broader range of management options.

If clicking is accompanied by pain or restricted mouth opening, consulting a dental professional is recommended.

Dr. Dt. Busra Kaya, Specialist in Prosthodontics, Atasehir Istanbul.