Jaw Pain and Clicking: When to See a Doctor

Q: Jaw Pain and Clicking: When to See a Doctor

Hello： The situation you described pertains to a dental issue： temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is often caused by occlusal abnormalities, with a few cases resulting from trauma leading to occlusal issues. <br>This problem is commonly seen in patients who grind their teeth duri

Facial occlusion can sometimes be painful?

Your aunt experiences loud sounds from the "joint" area near her ears when she bites down, and sometimes feels pain when opening her mouth after not speaking for a while.
Which specialist should she see, and what could be the cause of this? Thank you.

Ting, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/02/12

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine

Hello: The situation you described pertains to a dental issue: temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is often caused by occlusal abnormalities, with a few cases resulting from trauma leading to occlusal issues.
This problem is commonly seen in patients who grind their teeth during sleep, and these individuals usually experience poor sleep quality or excessive daytime stress that accumulates over time.
Generally, seeking treatment from a dentist for occlusal splint therapy can lead to improvement.
However, a small number of individuals may need to address their sleep issues to achieve a complete resolution.
Based on your age, I recommend that in addition to wearing an occlusal splint, you should consider taking a sleep aid before bedtime.
In severe cases, a muscle relaxant may also be added.
This way, your temporomandibular joint can truly rest.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope the above explanation helps resolve your concerns.
Hualien Hospital, Dr.
Tsai Jue-Ren.

Reply Date: 2007/02/12

More Info

Jaw pain and clicking sounds in the jaw joint, particularly when opening or closing the mouth, can be indicative of several underlying issues, most commonly related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJ connects the jawbone to the skull and is responsible for the movement of the jaw during activities such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. When there are problems with this joint, it can lead to discomfort, pain, and audible sounds.

Possible Causes of Jaw Pain and Clicking
1. TMJ Disorders: These are the most common causes of jaw pain and clicking. TMJ disorders can arise from various factors, including:
- Jaw Misalignment: If the jaw is not aligned properly, it can lead to uneven pressure on the joint, causing pain and clicking.

- Arthritis: Inflammation of the joint can lead to pain and restricted movement.

- Disc Displacement: The TMJ contains a disc that helps cushion the joint. If this disc becomes displaced, it can cause clicking sounds and pain.

- Muscle Tension: Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension in the jaw, resulting in pain and discomfort.

2. Bruxism: This condition involves grinding or clenching the teeth, often unconsciously during sleep or in response to stress. Bruxism can lead to significant wear on the teeth, jaw pain, and TMJ disorders.

3. Injury: Trauma to the jaw or face can lead to TMJ dysfunction, resulting in pain and clicking sounds.

4. Dental Issues: Problems such as cavities, gum disease, or misaligned teeth can also contribute to jaw pain and clicking.

When to See a Doctor
If your aunt is experiencing persistent jaw pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty in opening or closing her mouth, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. The following signs indicate that she should seek medical attention:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain lasts for more than a few days or worsens over time.

- Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty in opening or closing the mouth fully.

- Swelling: Any noticeable swelling around the jaw or face.

- Headaches: Frequent headaches that coincide with jaw pain.

- Ear Pain: Pain or discomfort in the ears, which can sometimes be associated with TMJ disorders.

Which Specialist to See
For issues related to jaw pain and clicking, the following specialists may be consulted:
- Dentist: A general dentist can evaluate dental issues, bruxism, and jaw alignment.

- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: If surgical intervention is needed, this specialist can provide treatment for TMJ disorders.

- Otolaryngologist (ENT): If there are concerns about ear pain or related symptoms.

- Physical Therapist: They can provide exercises and treatments to alleviate muscle tension and improve jaw function.

Treatment Options
Treatment for jaw pain and clicking can vary based on the underlying cause. Common approaches include:
- Conservative Treatments: These may include heat or ice application, over-the-counter pain relievers, and relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension.

- Dental Appliances: A dentist may recommend a night guard to prevent teeth grinding.

- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen jaw muscles and improve flexibility.

- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants may be prescribed.

- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options may be considered to correct structural issues in the TMJ.

In conclusion, jaw pain and clicking can stem from various causes, primarily related to the TMJ. If your aunt is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to seek professional evaluation and treatment to address the underlying issues effectively.

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