San Francisco and Marin CA
Struggling with Jaw Popping and Locking?
Jaw pain and discomfort can seriously disrupt your day-to-day life. At Glen Park Dental in San Francisco, we’ve seen how jaw popping and locking can become chronic and impact your overall well-being. But what causes these issues, and how can you prevent them from recurring?
Before exploring solutions to stop jaw popping and locking, it’s important to understand what’s behind the problem.
Why Does Your Jaw Pop or Lock?
A popping or clicking sound from your jaw, especially when paired with pain, might be a sign of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD or TMD). If your jaw clicks without pain, it’s usually not alarming but still worth investigating.
Several factors can contribute to jaw popping and locking, including:
- Biting the inside of your cheeks or lips
- Jaw clenching
- Frequent gum chewing
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Jaw injuries or arthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Misaligned bite (overbite or underbite)
- Temporomandibular joint issues
- Myofascial pain syndrome
Common Symptoms of Jaw Popping and Locking
If you’re experiencing jaw popping or locking, you might notice symptoms such as:
- Pain or discomfort around the jaw
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Toothaches, earaches, or neck pain
- Facial swelling
- Tenderness in the jaw, face, or neck
- Jaw locking in an open or closed position
6 Tips to Help Stop Jaw Popping and Locking
Now that you have an understanding of the causes and symptoms, here are six practical ways to manage and reduce jaw popping and locking:
- Move Your Jaw Carefully
Avoid sudden or wide jaw movements. Opening your mouth too wide or snapping it shut can aggravate the problem and increase pain. - Ease Jaw Tension
Try to keep your teeth slightly apart when possible. If you find yourself clenching or grinding, consciously relax your jaw muscles to relieve stress. - Consult a Specialist
It can be challenging to know the best exercises or treatments on your own. A TMJ specialist at Glen Park Dental can evaluate your jaw and recommend the most effective approach. - Improve Your Posture
Poor posture affects more than just your back—it can strain your jaw and neck muscles too. Simple daily posture exercises can help alleviate tension and reduce jaw discomfort. - Modify Your Diet
Opt for softer foods and avoid tough, crunchy, or chewy items that require excessive jaw movement. Foods like cooked vegetables, soft fruits, yogurt, and smoothies are great choices during flare-ups. - Seek Professional Treatment
For persistent issues, professional care is key. Glen Park Dental offers comprehensive TMJ evaluations and custom treatment plans designed to provide lasting relief from jaw popping and locking.
Ready to End Jaw Popping and Locking?
If jaw popping or locking is interfering with your life, don’t wait to get help. The expert team at Glen Park Dental is here to provide personalized care tailored to your needs.
Contact Glen Park Dental today:
📞 (415) 799-3900
📍 4 Joost Ave, San Francisco, CA 94131
Schedule your appointment now and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable jaw.
