The Locked Jaw

Your temporomandibular joint is comprised of tendons, ligaments and cartilage that allows your jaw to open and close and move from side to side. This joint is used every day for eating, speaking and a variety of other functions. You probably do not even notice the importance of this joint until something goes wrong.

The Daily Grind

One of the largest contributors to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD) is bruxism, or the grinding of teeth. This condition usually manifests when the individual is asleep, making it difficult to diagnose unless there is a sleep partner who is disturbed by the noise. Signs of bruxism are sore jaw muscles upon waking or tightness in the jaw. Left untreated, bruxism can cause a variety of dental problems in addition to TMJ/TMD, such as eroding tooth enamel and the formation of small gaps between teeth due to shifting.

The Sound of a Problem

Many individuals experiencing TMJ/TMD may experience a snapping or popping sound when they open or close the mouth. When diagnosing the problem, the dentist will palpitate the joint while the patient makes various jaw movements. Often, the dysfunction of the joint can be felt and heard during this examination. It is not uncommon for a person with TMJ/TMD to suffer from headaches as well as jaw pain.

All Locked Up

Occasionally an individual may experience a “catch” in jaw movement. The jaw may become momentarily stuck, but then releases right away. This is usually painless, but annoying. When TMJ/TMD is severe enough, the jaw can become locked. This can happen at any time. In this situation, the individual is unable to move their jaw. Realignment of the jaw is necessary in order to get it to unlock. This is often done by manipulating it back into place; but in the most severe cases, surgery may be needed. Misalignment can occur when there has been damage to the tendons, ligaments and/or the cartilage around the joint.

Unlocking the Locked Jaw

If your jaw should become locked, the first thing to do is try to relax. Applying heat to both sides of your jaw may help relax the muscles. Once your muscles are as relaxed as possible, place your palms on either side of the jaw and gently move it from side to side and back and forth. Do not put fingers in your mouth to move your jaw. Sometimes a locked jaw will snap shut once it releases.

If you cannot get your jaw to move back into place, do not force it; rather, seek professional care. Sacramento Emergency Dentistry is here to help in instances like this. When you have a dental emergency, be sure to give us a call. We can help.