Why Does My Jaw Click When Chewing And Simple Remedies To Try

Many people experience a clicking or popping sound in the jaw while chewing, speaking, or opening their mouth wide. While occasional noise may not be alarming, persistent clicking—especially when accompanied by pain or limited movement—can signal an underlying issue with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint connects your jawbone to your skull and plays a crucial role in everyday functions like eating and talking. Understanding the causes of jaw clicking and knowing which remedies to apply early can prevent complications and enhance comfort.

Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

The TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the human body. It allows for both hinge and sliding motions, enabling you to open your mouth, chew, and speak fluidly. A small disc of cartilage sits between the jawbone and the temporal bone of the skull, acting as a cushion during movement. When this disc becomes misaligned, inflamed, or damaged, it can result in audible clicking, popping, or grinding noises.

Jaw clicking occurs when the disc doesn’t glide smoothly during jaw movement. Instead, it snaps back into place or shifts unevenly, creating the characteristic sound. In some cases, the joint may lock temporarily, making it difficult to open or close the mouth fully.

“Over 10 million Americans experience TMJ-related symptoms at any given time. Jaw clicking is often the first noticeable sign.” — Dr. Alan Foster, Oral & Maxillofacial Specialist

Common Causes of Jaw Clicking During Chewing

Jaw clicking isn’t always a sign of serious disease, but it shouldn’t be ignored if it persists. Several factors can contribute to this condition:

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): This umbrella term refers to conditions affecting the TMJ and surrounding muscles. TMD is the most common cause of chronic jaw clicking.
• Jaw Injury: Trauma from sports, falls, or dental procedures can displace the joint disc or strain the ligaments.
• Tooth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism): Often occurring at night, bruxism places excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to inflammation and disc displacement.
• Poor Bite Alignment: Misaligned teeth or an uneven bite can create imbalances in jaw movement, increasing wear on the joint.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can degrade the joint’s cartilage, causing friction and noise.
• Stress and Muscle Tension: Emotional stress leads to tightened facial and jaw muscles, restricting smooth joint motion.
• Excessive Chewing: Constant gum chewing or eating hard foods overworks the joint, potentially aggravating existing issues.

Tip: Pay attention to when the clicking happens—during opening, closing, or side-to-side motion—as this can help identify the specific joint dysfunction.

When to Be Concerned About Jaw Clicking

Not all jaw sounds require immediate medical intervention. Occasional, painless clicking that doesn’t interfere with daily activities may resolve on its own. However, certain red flags indicate the need for professional evaluation:

• Pain in the jaw, face, neck, or ears during movement
• Difficulty opening the mouth fully (limited range of motion)
• Frequent locking of the jaw
• Headaches or earaches without other causes
• Noticeable changes in how your teeth fit together
• Symptoms worsening over time

If clicking began after an injury or is becoming more frequent, consult a dentist or TMJ specialist. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term damage and reduce the need for invasive treatments.

Simple Remedies to Try at Home

For mild to moderate jaw clicking, several non-invasive strategies can help restore joint function and relieve discomfort. These remedies focus on reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and minimizing strain on the TMJ.

1. Apply Warm and Cold Compresses

Alternating heat and ice helps manage both pain and swelling. Use a cold pack wrapped in cloth for 10 minutes to reduce acute inflammation. Follow with a warm towel or heating pad for 15 minutes to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow.

2. Practice Gentle Jaw Stretches

Controlled stretching can improve mobility and reposition the joint disc. Perform these exercises slowly, avoiding pain:

1. Place your thumb under your chin and your index finger on the top front teeth.
2. Gently press down while slowly opening your mouth against resistance.
3. Hold for 5 seconds, then release. Repeat 5 times.
4. For lateral movements, move your jaw slowly to the right and hold for 5 seconds, then repeat on the left.

3. Modify Your Diet

Reduce strain on the jaw by avoiding hard, chewy, or large foods. Cut food into small pieces and opt for soft meals like soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies for a few days.

4. Avoid Excessive Jaw Movements

Limit yawning widely, shouting, or chewing gum. If you must yawn, support your jaw with your hand to prevent overextension.

5. Manage Stress and Relax Facial Muscles

Stress contributes significantly to jaw tension. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. Be mindful of clenching—set reminders to check if your teeth are touching during the day.

Tip: Keep your tongue resting gently on the roof of your mouth and your teeth slightly apart to reduce unconscious clenching.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reducing Jaw Clicking in 7 Days

Follow this structured plan to address mild jaw clicking at home. Consistency is key—perform each step daily for best results.

1. Day 1–2: Assess and Rest
   • Stop chewing gum and avoid hard foods.
   • Apply ice for 10 minutes twice a day if there’s swelling.
   • Begin monitoring habits like teeth clenching.
2. Day 3–4: Introduce Heat and Stretching
   • Use a warm compress for 15 minutes morning and night.
   • Perform gentle jaw stretches 2–3 times daily.
   • Practice relaxation breathing for 5 minutes, 3 times a day.
3. Day 5–7: Build Awareness and Strengthen Habits
   • Continue stretches and heat therapy.
   • Keep a symptom journal noting frequency of clicking and pain levels.
   • Introduce soft-tissue massage around the jaw and temples using light pressure.

If symptoms improve, maintain these habits weekly. If no change occurs by Day 7, consider seeking professional care.

Do’s and Don’ts for Managing Jaw Clicking

Do’s	Don’ts
Eat soft foods and cut meals into small bites	Chew gum or eat tough meats and nuts
Apply warm compresses to relax muscles	Yawn widely without supporting your jaw
Practice stress-reducing techniques daily	Rest your chin on your hand or cradle your phone between shoulder and ear
Perform gentle jaw exercises as directed	Force your jaw open or manipulate it aggressively
Visit a dentist if symptoms persist beyond two weeks	Ignore pain or assume it will resolve on its own

Real-Life Example: Sarah’s Experience with Jaw Clicking

Sarah, a 34-year-old graphic designer, began noticing a clicking sound in her right jaw while eating apples. At first, she dismissed it, but within a month, the noise became louder and was accompanied by dull pain near her ear. She also started waking up with headaches.

After reading about TMJ online, Sarah realized she had been clenching her jaw at work, especially during tight deadlines. She decided to try self-care strategies: she stopped chewing gum, applied a warm towel nightly, and practiced mindfulness to reduce stress. She also adjusted her workstation to promote better posture.

Within three weeks, the clicking decreased significantly, and her morning headaches disappeared. A follow-up visit with her dentist confirmed mild TMD, and she was fitted with a nighttime mouthguard to prevent grinding. Today, Sarah maintains a routine of jaw awareness and relaxation, keeping her symptoms under control.

When to Seek Professional Help

Home remedies are effective for many, but some cases require clinical intervention. Consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

• Clicking is painful or worsening
• You experience frequent jaw locking
• There’s a history of jaw trauma
• Over-the-counter pain relievers don’t help

Dental professionals may recommend oral splints (night guards), physical therapy, or in rare cases, imaging studies like MRI to assess disc position. In severe TMD, specialists might suggest corticosteroid injections or, as a last resort, surgery—but these are uncommon for isolated clicking without functional impairment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can jaw clicking go away on its own?

Yes, mild jaw clicking related to temporary strain or minor misalignment can resolve with rest, improved habits, and self-care. However, if it persists beyond a few weeks or worsens, professional evaluation is recommended to rule out chronic TMD.

Is jaw clicking dangerous?

On its own, clicking isn’t dangerous. But if it’s associated with pain, limited movement, or locking, it may indicate progressive joint damage. Left untreated, chronic TMD can lead to degenerative changes in the joint, affecting long-term function.

Can a dentist fix a clicking jaw?

Yes, dentists—especially those trained in TMJ disorders—can diagnose the cause and offer treatments such as custom night guards, bite adjustments, or referrals to physical therapists. They play a central role in managing jaw joint issues.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Jaw clicking when chewing is more than just a curious noise—it’s your body’s way of signaling that something in the TMJ needs attention. While many cases respond well to simple lifestyle changes and home care, ignoring persistent symptoms can lead to greater discomfort and longer recovery times. The key is early awareness and consistent action.

You don’t have to live with jaw discomfort. Start today by evaluating your habits, trying gentle remedies, and listening to your body. If symptoms continue, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dental or medical professional. Small steps now can prevent bigger problems later.

💬 Have you experienced jaw clicking? What helped you feel better? Share your story in the comments—your insight could help someone else find relief.