Jaw popping means that the disc inside the jaw joint is unstable. The disc pops when it spits forward out of place or backwards into place. This is caused by an abnormally shaped disc and can be so loud that it disturbs other people. You could say that it's a floppy disk!

          In most cases, jaw pain is nature's way of letting us know that there is something wrong. Fortunately, most patients that have a jaw popping do not have jaw pain and most dentists do not treat the problem unless pain develops. Patients should investigate all of the signs and symptoms of TMJ because they may not be aware of what other difficulties their problem is causing. Many TMJ patients have shortened spastic jaw muscles which increase the pressure inside the jaw joint on the disc. This forces the disc to pop. If the jaw muscles and the patient are healthy, a patient may not have TMJ headaches. If the jaw muscles can be relaxed with a TMJ mouth guard, it often deceases the amount, frequency, and loudness of the pop. However, many patients continue to experience tooth grinding even with treatment.

          If the jaw popping and clicking continue, the joint could become increasingly damaged. Eventually the patient may experience a jaw locking problem that prevents the jaw from closing back into place. Some patients who are really bothered require special TMJ orthodontics to reposition the jaw into a position that supports the damaged disc. However, the noise continues in as many as 50% of these patients even after orthodontics.

          If you have a jaw popping problem and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, make an appointment at 404-874-7428