Internal Clicking? Why Your Jaw "Locks" & Medically Proven TMJ Relief

If you hear an internal clicking sound when you open your mouth—or your jaw sometimes "locks" or feels stuck—you're not imagining it. These are classic signs of TMJ disorders (also called TMD), a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The TMJ is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull. You use it constantly—when you talk, chew, yawn, or even swallow. When something disrupts how this joint works, you may feel or hear clicking, popping, stiffness, or locking.

Let's break down what causes internal jaw clicking, why locking happens, and what medically proven treatments can help.

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What Is the TMJ and Why Does It Click?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the body. It works like a sliding hinge. Inside the joint is a small, flexible disc that cushions the bones and helps your jaw move smoothly.

When that disc shifts out of its normal position, you may hear:

• Clicking
• Popping
• Snapping
• Grinding sounds

This is often called disc displacement.

Why Clicking Happens

Clicking usually occurs when:

• The cushioning disc slips forward.
• The jawbone moves over the displaced disc.
• The disc briefly snaps back into place as you open or close your mouth.

If the disc moves back into place, you may hear a click but still be able to open your mouth fully. This is called disc displacement with reduction.

If the disc does not return to its normal position, your jaw may lock or have limited movement. This is called disc displacement without reduction—and it can be more uncomfortable.

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Why Does the Jaw "Lock"?

Jaw locking can feel scary, but it's usually mechanical rather than dangerous.

Locking may happen because:

• The disc is blocking smooth joint movement.
• The muscles around the joint are in spasm.
• Inflammation has narrowed joint space.
• There is joint damage from arthritis.

You may notice:

• Difficulty opening your mouth wide
• Sudden inability to close your mouth fully
• A feeling that your jaw is stuck
• Pain when chewing

If locking happens repeatedly or is painful, it should be evaluated.

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Common Causes of TMJ Disorders

TMJ problems are common. Studies suggest up to 5–12% of adults experience symptoms significant enough to need treatment.

Common causes include:

1. Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)

Often stress-related and sometimes happens during sleep. This overloads the TMJ.

2. Jaw Injury

A blow to the face or whiplash can damage the joint or disc.

3. Arthritis

Osteoarthritis can wear down joint cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis can inflame the joint lining.

If you're experiencing persistent jaw pain, stiffness, or grinding sensations and want to understand whether degenerative changes might be occurring, you can use a free symptom checker for Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis (TMJ) to help identify your symptoms and assess your risk.

4. Muscle Tension

Chronic stress tightens jaw and neck muscles.

5. Structural Bite Issues

Jaw alignment differences may contribute in some people, though research shows bite issues are often overblamed.

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When Is TMJ Clicking Normal?

Not all clicking means something serious.

If your jaw:

• Clicks without pain
• Does not limit movement
• Does not worsen over time

It may not require treatment.

However, you should not ignore:

• Persistent pain
• Swelling
• Repeated locking
• Jaw deviation when opening
• Headaches or ear pain linked to jaw movement

These signs suggest active TMJ dysfunction.

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Medically Proven TMJ Relief Options

The good news: Most TMJ disorders improve with conservative (non-surgical) treatment.

Clinical guidelines recommend starting with the least invasive approaches.

1. Jaw Rest and Behavior Changes

Often very effective.

• Avoid wide yawning
• Cut food into small pieces
• Avoid gum chewing
• Limit hard or chewy foods
• Keep teeth slightly apart (lips closed, teeth not touching)

This reduces joint strain.

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2. Moist Heat or Ice

• Heat relaxes tight muscles.
• Ice reduces inflammation.

Use 15–20 minutes at a time.

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3. Gentle Jaw Exercises

Physical therapy–guided exercises can:

• Improve range of motion
• Reduce stiffness
• Strengthen support muscles

A healthcare provider or physical therapist trained in TMJ disorders should guide this.

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4. Oral Appliances (Night Guards or Splints)

Custom-fitted devices may:

• Reduce grinding
• Protect teeth
• Decrease joint load

These are most helpful for patients with clenching or bruxism.

Important: Over-the-counter mouthguards are not the same as professionally fitted appliances.

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5. Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Short-term use of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce pain and inflammation. Always follow dosing instructions and consult a doctor if you have stomach, kidney, or heart conditions.

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6. Stress Management

Because muscle tension plays a major role in TMJ pain, stress reduction matters.

Helpful options include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Mindfulness practices
• Regular exercise
• Sleep improvement

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7. Physical Therapy

Evidence supports physical therapy for TMJ disorders. Techniques may include:

• Manual therapy
• Posture correction
• Neck strengthening
• Muscle release techniques

The neck and jaw are closely connected.

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8. Injections (When Needed)

If conservative treatment fails, a specialist may recommend:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Hyaluronic acid injections
• Botox (in specific cases of severe muscle overactivity)

These are not first-line treatments but can help select patients.

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9. Surgery (Rare)

Surgery is uncommon and reserved for:

• Severe structural damage
• Tumors
• Advanced arthritis
• Joint fusion

Most TMJ cases never require surgery.

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Is It TMJ or Something More Serious?

Most jaw clicking is not life-threatening. However, seek medical care urgently if you experience:

• Sudden facial weakness
• Severe swelling
• Fever with jaw pain
• Trauma with inability to move the jaw
• Chest pain with jaw pain

Jaw pain can occasionally be referred from heart problems. If pain spreads to your chest, shoulder, or arm, seek emergency care.

When in doubt, speak to a doctor.

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Can TMJ Go Away on Its Own?

Yes—many mild TMJ cases resolve within weeks to months, especially when:

• Stress decreases
• Clenching is addressed
• Joint inflammation settles

However, chronic untreated TMJ disorders can lead to:

• Persistent pain
• Reduced jaw mobility
• Degenerative joint changes

That's why early conservative treatment is smart.

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Practical Steps You Can Take Today

If you're experiencing internal clicking or locking:

• Monitor how often it happens
• Avoid jaw overuse
• Apply heat to tense muscles
• Practice relaxed jaw positioning
• Reduce stress triggers
• Take a free online assessment for Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis (TMJ) if stiffness and grinding sensations are worsening

If symptoms persist more than a few weeks, schedule an appointment with:

• A primary care doctor
• A dentist familiar with TMJ disorders
• An oral and maxillofacial specialist
• A physical therapist trained in TMJ care

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The Bottom Line on TMJ Clicking and Locking

Internal jaw clicking is usually caused by disc movement within the TMJ. Locking happens when that disc interferes with normal motion or when inflammation restricts movement.

Most cases are manageable and improve with:

• Conservative treatment
• Stress management
• Physical therapy
• Proper oral appliances

While TMJ disorders are rarely dangerous, they shouldn't be ignored if painful or worsening.

If you're unsure what's causing your symptoms, consider using a structured symptom checker and speak to a doctor to rule out serious or life-threatening conditions.

With the right approach, most people find significant relief—and regain smooth, comfortable jaw movement.