Feeling your jaw make a popping sound when opening or closing your mouth is more common than it seems. Many people notice it when they yawn, eat, or even when they talk. Although it does not always cause pain, that noise can be annoying or cause concern.
Understanding what causes it and how to solve it is the first step to preventing it from getting worse. Stay to read this article.
Jaw cracking
The jaw moves thanks to a joint located just in front of the ear. It is a small but very delicate area, and any imbalance can make something not fit quite right, generating the cracking sound. This noise may be due to muscles that are excessively tense, a slight displacement inside the joint, or a bite that does not fit correctly.
Normally, the jaw should move smoothly, without noises. But if a clicking sound appears, it may mean that the joint is working harder than it should or that the muscles are making an extra effort to keep everything in place. Although it is not always something serious, it is worth paying attention to it, especially if it is accompanied by pain, stiffness, or the feeling that the jaw “gets stuck.”
Why does my jaw crack?
There are several causes that can explain this cracking:
- Bruxism: clenching or grinding the teeth, especially at night, is one of the most common causes. This tenses the jaw and overloads the joint.
- Bad bite: if the teeth do not fit well when closing the mouth, the jaw does not move in a balanced way, which can generate noises and discomfort.
- Displacement of the articular disc: inside the joint there is a small “cushion” that sometimes moves slightly. When it returns to its place, the cracking sound occurs.
- Stress and muscle tension: many people clench their jaw without realizing it during the day, especially when they are nervous or focused.
- Blows or excessive strain: an impact in the area, biting something very hard, or opening the mouth more than usual can irritate the joint.
- Natural wear of the tissues: over time, the internal structures can deteriorate a bit, making the joint not function as smoothly as before.
Understanding the cause is essential for choosing the right treatment and preventing the problem from getting worse.
Treatment for jaw cracking
Treatments for jaw cracking always adapt to the cause. Not everyone needs the same thing, but the important part is relieving tension, correcting harmful habits, and helping the joint function properly again. In most cases, the solutions are simple and non-invasive.
- Night guards: These custom-made guards are usually worn at night. They help relax the jaw, reduce pressure on the joint, and prevent damage caused by bruxism. They are one of the most effective treatments when the problem is related to clenching or grinding the teeth.
- Jaw exercises and physiotherapy: With gentle massages, stretches, and guided exercises, muscle tension can be reduced, mobility improved, and noises decreased. Physiotherapy helps the joint move more smoothly again.
- Habit changes and daily care: Avoiding very hard foods, not forcing mouth opening, improving posture at work, and learning to relax the jaw are important steps to reduce cracking.
- Orthodontics: If the cause lies in the bite, correcting the position of the teeth can be key. A balanced bite allows the jaw to work more steadily.
- Relaxation and stress control: Deep breathing, relaxation exercises, or even short breaks during the day can help a lot if emotional tension affects the jaw.
- Medical treatment if there is pain or inflammation: In specific cases, the professional may recommend medication to reduce inflammation or relax the muscles, always controlled and for a limited time.
Visit our clinic if your jaw cracks
If you notice frequent cracking, discomfort when chewing, or stiffness when moving your mouth, the best option is to have a specialist check it. At Gross Dentistas, we have a team of dentists in Málaga and Torremolinos with extensive experience in jaw joint problems. We work with a close and personalized approach to find the cause and offer you the most suitable solution.
At Gross Dentistas, we will be happy to assist you, answer your questions, and design a treatment with you that truly works. Contact us and book an appointment.
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.
