My Jaw Pops When I Chew: Is This a Health Concern?

Experiencing a popping or clicking sound when chewing can be more than just annoying, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which affects the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull, commonly causes bite issues, including a popping noise when chewing. 

If you’re having symptoms of TMJ, our team at Health Advantage Physical Medicine can perform a thorough evaluation, and provide effective treatment to restore proper jaw function and relieve any associated pain. 

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorders encompass various conditions that can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Symptoms often include a popping sound when opening or closing the mouth, jaw pain, and sometimes difficulty chewing. 

When should you be concerned?

Many people show some signs of TMJ, but the majority don’t have any symptoms. If the popping sound is accompanied by pain, discomfort, or any limitation in jaw movement, it's important to seek evaluation. 

Occasional pops without other symptoms might not be immediate causes for concern. However, if the frequency increases or it becomes painful, it could indicate a TMJ disorder or another underlying issue that needs professional attention.

How can our clinic help?

At Health Advantage Physical Medicine, we offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. Our initial step involves a thorough examination to assess the extent of the issue. This might include a physical examination to check for tenderness, clicking, popping, or difficulty moving the jaw. Additionally, we may order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to view the jaw in detail and determine the cause of your symptoms.

Chiropractic adjustments for TMJ

Our experienced chiropractor Dennis Buckley, DC, offers effective treatment for TMJ disorders, focusing on restoring proper alignment and function to the spine and jaw. Chiropractic adjustments, particularly those targeting the cervical spine and temporomandibular joint, can help relieve the pressure and misalignment that contribute to TMJ symptoms. 

Dr. Buckley performs these adjustments with precise, gentle movements to correct misalignments in the vertebrae and jaw. By improving the alignment, chiropractic care can reduce nerve interference, enhance joint mobility, and decrease muscle tension around the jaw. 

This not only helps relieve pain and discomfort but also improves the overall function of the jaw, making daily activities like chewing and speaking more comfortable. In addition to manual adjustments, Dr. Buckley may employ soft tissue therapies that focus on the muscles and ligaments around the jaw. 

Techniques such as trigger point therapy or myofascial release can be particularly beneficial in loosening tight muscles and reducing the internal scar tissue that often contributes to the stiffness and pain associated with TMJ disorders. 

These chiropractic techniques are integrated with a holistic treatment plan that includes advice on lifestyle adjustments, such as posture improvement and stress management strategies. By addressing both the structural and muscular aspects of TMJ, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to relieving symptoms and promoting the long-term health of the jaw.

Preventive measures and long-term care

In addition to immediate treatment, our team focuses on long-term strategies to prevent the TMJ symptoms from returning. This includes ongoing therapy and regular check-ups. 

Our clinic is equipped with the tools and expertise to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders and prevent future complications. 

The team at Health Advantage Physical Medicine is your partner in health promotion. For a TMJ consultation, contact our Pasadena, California clinic to request an appointment. Our team is dedicated to providing advanced care that builds and optimizes health.