What does it mean when my jaw pops or clicks? Joint noise is one of the most recognized signs and symptoms of TMJ issues. These noises can be an early or late sign of TMJ disorders. When your jaw pops, most of the time it is due to damage to the disc which separates the jaw from the skull. It acts as a cushion to keep your jaw from rubbing bone against bone.
If you place your finger in front of your ear, sometimes you can feel the disc pop. It can cause severe pain or no pain. A clicking joint is usually not healthy and can lead to more degeneration. In many cases, it is possible to get the disc back in place non-surgically with TMJ treatment. Before any treatment is rendered, a diagnosis is important to determine why and what is happening. This could be from:
1) Trauma
2) Bad Bite
3) Orthodontics
4) Breathing/swallowing disorders
Dentist with special interests in TMJ and who have advanced trainig in TMJ treatment can often help
If you have questions about Houston TMJ or Houston TMJ treatment, please feel free to call our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF, 713-668-2289
