The jaw joint, which allows the mouth to open and close, as well as move side to side and forward and back, is a complex joint. It is made up of bones, tissue, muscles and ligaments, all of which can become injured. Problems with jaw clicking can be painful and can hinder speaking and eating. If these symptoms occur, speak with a health-care provider who can determine the cause and then formulate a treatment plan.
Bruxism
Bruxism is the term used for grinding or clenching the teeth either during the day or at night. It can be the result of stress, unexpressed anger, jaw misalignment, neurological conditions or medications. Children may experience bruxism during periods of growth, according to the Mayo Clinic. Along with jaw pain, symptoms may include flattened or chipped teeth, headaches and earaches.
Jaw Misalignment
The jaw can become misaligned, causing pain and clicking, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. This can bring about visible changes in the face. A birth defect, different rates of upper- and lower-jaw growth or a facial injury can cause the misalignment. Nonsurgical steps can be tried to correct the bite. In severe cases surgery may be required.
TMJ
TMJ, or temporomandibular disorder, is a general term used to describe many conditions that cause jaw pain, clicking or locking. The Cleveland Clinic says that in many cases the cause of TMJ is unknown. It can occur on its own or be the result of bruxism, jaw deformities, injury to the face or arthritis. TMJ can cause severe pain and limited ability to open the mouth wide.
Jaw Arthritis
Jaw pain can be secondary to another medical condition, such as one of the many forms of arthritis, according to the Merck Manuals website. Arthritis can cause fusion of the jaw bones, inflammation of the tissues, jaw muscle tightness and problems with the ligaments that support jaw movement. In some cases symptoms are present constantly. In others, symptoms occur only when the jaw is moving.
