Clicking Sounds Near Wisdom Teeth: Causes and Concerns - Otolaryngology

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Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the clicking sounds near your wisdom teeth and the associated sensations you are experiencing. It sounds like you are dealing with a complex set of symptoms that may involve multiple systems in your body, including your dental health, sinus function, and possibly even your auditory system.

The clicking or popping sounds you hear when you talk or move your jaw could be related to a few different factors. One common cause is the movement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jawbone to your skull. When you open your mouth, chew, or move your jaw, the cartilage in this joint can sometimes make a clicking sound, especially if there is any misalignment or if the joint is not functioning smoothly. This is often referred to as TMJ dysfunction, and it can be accompanied by sensations of pressure or resistance when biting or swallowing.

Additionally, the sensation of pressure or resistance you feel when swallowing or moving your jaw could be related to your sinuses. The upper jaw is closely connected to the sinus cavities, and any inflammation or congestion in the sinuses (which can be caused by allergies, as you mentioned) can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the area. This might explain why you feel like you are pushing mucus into your throat when you swallow or move your jaw.

The fact that you have been experiencing these symptoms alongside your wisdom teeth may also be significant. Wisdom teeth, especially if they are impacted or not fully erupted, can cause discomfort and may contribute to inflammation in the surrounding tissues. If your wisdom teeth are causing pressure on nearby structures, this could potentially lead to the sensations and sounds you are experiencing.

Regarding the sounds you hear while walking, such as a dripping noise, it is less likely to be directly related to your dental issues but could be associated with your auditory system or even the way your body is perceiving sounds in relation to movement. Sometimes, changes in posture or movement can alter how we perceive sounds, especially if there is any underlying tension or dysfunction in the jaw or neck area.

Given that you have already consulted with a doctor who performed a nasopharyngoscopy and found no issues, it may be beneficial to consider a few additional steps:
1. Dental Evaluation: If you haven’t already, consider seeing a dentist who specializes in TMJ disorders. They can assess your jaw function and determine if there are any issues with your bite or jaw alignment that may be contributing to your symptoms.

2. Allergy Management: Since you mentioned allergies, managing your allergic reactions may help alleviate some of the sinus pressure you are experiencing. Over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids may provide relief.

3. Jaw Exercises: Gentle jaw exercises and relaxation techniques can sometimes help alleviate TMJ symptoms. A physical therapist or dentist can guide you on appropriate exercises.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of when your symptoms worsen or improve, as this can provide valuable information to your healthcare providers.

5. Follow-Up: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider following up with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a dentist who can provide a more comprehensive evaluation.

In summary, the clicking sounds near your wisdom teeth and the associated sensations could be due to a combination of TMJ dysfunction, sinus pressure, and possibly the condition of your wisdom teeth. It’s important to continue seeking professional advice and to explore various avenues for relief. I hope this information helps clarify your concerns, and I wish you the best in finding a resolution to your symptoms!