Stop Jaw Clicking Forever: Proven Treatment Solutions That Actually Work

If you’ve noticed a clicking sound in your jaw when you chew, yawn, or open your mouth wide, you’re not alone. Jaw clicking is very common and often linked to the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) , the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull.

Sometimes jaw clicking is harmless, but in other cases it can be a sign of a developing jaw joint problem that needs professional advice. In this blog, we’ll explain what causes jaw clicking, what TMJ problems feel like, and what treatment options may help.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Guildford Surrey to assess jaw pain or clicking, our team at Surrey Dental Practice can help.

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. You have one on each side of your jaw, just in front of your ears.

This joint works with muscles and ligaments to help you:

• chew and bite
• speak
• yawn
• open and close your mouth smoothly

Inside the joint, there’s a small disc that helps the jaw move comfortably. Clicking often happens when this disc is not moving perfectly in sync with the jaw.

Jaw clicking can happen for a few reasons. The most common causes include:

Disc displacement (most common cause)

The joint disc can move slightly out of position. When your jaw opens, the disc may “pop” back into place , creating a clicking sound.

This is often called TMJ disc displacement with reduction.

Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

Grinding your teeth (especially at night) puts extra strain on the jaw joint and muscles. This can lead to clicking, tightness, and pain.

Many people don’t realise they grind until a dentist notices signs such as:

• tooth wear
• cracks or chipping
• sensitivity
• jaw muscle tenderness

Muscle tension and stress

Stress can cause people to clench their jaw without noticing, especially during the day. This can overload the TMJ and create clicking or aching.

Bite changes or uneven pressure

If your bite is unbalanced (for example, after dental work, missing teeth, or shifting teeth), your jaw may move slightly differently, increasing joint strain.

Arthritis or joint inflammation

In some cases, jaw clicking is related to inflammation or wear-and-tear changes in the joint (more common with age or certain conditions).

Not always.

Jaw clicking can be harmless if:

• it’s painless
• your jaw opens normally
• it doesn’t lock
• it’s not getting worse

However, it’s important to get checked if you have any of these warning signs:

When to see a dentist about jaw clicking

• pain in the jaw, face, or ear area
• headaches (especially in the temples)
• jaw locking open or closed
• difficulty opening wide
• chewing discomfort
• clicking that becomes louder or more frequent
• tenderness in jaw muscles
• tooth wear from grinding

If your jaw is clicking and painful, it’s likely a TMJ disorder (TMD) and may need treatment.

TMJ disorders don’t always feel the same for everyone. Symptoms can include:

• clicking, popping, or grinding noises
• jaw pain or stiffness
• facial pain
• earache symptoms (without an ear infection)
• headaches or migraines
• pain when chewing
• a tired jaw (especially after eating)
• neck and shoulder tension

Some patients describe it as feeling like their bite is “off” or their jaw doesn’t sit comfortably.

For many patients, simple changes reduce symptoms significantly.

Try these for 2–3 weeks:

• Avoid chewing gum and hard foods
• Stick to softer foods if it’s sore
• Don’t force your jaw open wide
• Apply warm compresses to jaw muscles
• Practice gentle jaw relaxation (lips together, teeth apart)
• Reduce clenching during the day (set reminders if needed)
• Manage stress and improve sleep where possible

If symptoms don’t improve, it’s best to get assessed.

At Surrey Dental Practice, we focus on conservative, evidence-based options first. Most TMJ issues improve without surgery.

1) TMJ assessment and diagnosis

We’ll examine:

• your jaw movement and joint sounds
• your bite and teeth wear
• muscle tenderness and tension
• signs of clenching/grinding

2) Night guard / bite splint for grinding

If grinding is a major cause, a custom night guard (occlusal splint) can help protect your teeth and reduce pressure on the TMJ.

This is especially useful if you wake up with:

• headaches
• tight jaw muscles
• sore teeth

3) Bite adjustment advice (only when appropriate)

If your bite is uneven due to a clear reason, we may recommend minor adjustments or a treatment plan to reduce stress on the joint.

4) Physiotherapy and jaw exercises

Some TMJ problems respond very well to:

• jaw stretching and strengthening exercises
• posture improvement
• massage techniques
• physio-led TMJ therapy

We can guide you on safe exercises or refer you if needed.

5) Pain relief and inflammation control

In short-term flare-ups, anti-inflammatory medication may help (if medically suitable for you). We can advise you but always follow GP/pharmacist guidance.

Yes in many cases, jaw clicking improves or disappears with:

• reducing clenching
• treating grinding
• muscle relaxation
• consistent night guard/ occlusal splint use (if needed)

Even if clicking remains, the goal is to keep the joint comfortable and prevent progression to locking or pain.

If your jaw symptoms continue despite a mouthguard and conservative treatment, we can arrange a referral to the Maxillofacial Department for specialist assessment and further investigations.

If you’re experiencing jaw clicking, jaw pain, or suspect grinding, we can assess your TMJ and guide you with a personalised treatment plan.