Jaw Clicking & Locking Treatment

Jaw clicking and locking are typically caused by displacement of the articular disc — a small cushion of cartilage that sits between the jawbone and the skull in the TMJ. When this disc shifts out of position, it can cause a clicking or popping sound as the jaw opens or closes. In some cases, the disc can block jaw movement entirely, causing the jaw to lock in an open or closed position.

Common symptoms of disc displacement include:

• Clicking, popping, or catching when opening or closing the mouth
• A sensation of the jaw shifting or deviating to one side during opening
• Episodes where the jaw locks open or closed temporarily
• Pain in front of the ear or in the jaw joint area
• Difficulty chewing or opening wide enough to eat comfortably
• Progressive worsening of clicking or increased frequency of locking

Disc displacement can result from trauma, teeth grinding, prolonged dental procedures, stress-related clenching, or gradual joint degeneration. While occasional painless clicking is common and not always a concern, progressive clicking with pain or episodes of locking should be evaluated and treated to prevent further joint damage.

Our treatment approach depends on the type and severity of your disc displacement. Your therapist will determine whether the disc is reducible (pops back into place) or non-reducible (stays displaced), and tailor treatment accordingly.

For reducible displacements, treatment focuses on:

• Jaw movement retraining — Teaching opening and closing patterns that reduce disc catching and clicking
• manual therapy — Soft tissue and joint techniques to improve jaw mechanics and reduce muscle tension that pulls the disc out of position
• Muscle balancing — Strengthening the lateral pterygoid and other muscles that stabilize the disc during movement
• Habit modification — Addressing clenching, gum chewing, nail biting, and other habits that stress the TMJ
• Cervical spine treatment — Addressing neck contributions that often accompany jaw dysfunction

For locked jaw episodes, we use specific manual techniques to gently restore jaw opening. We also develop prevention strategies to reduce the frequency of locking episodes over time.

Every session is one-on-one with a licensed physical therapist, allowing for precise, hands-on treatment that responds to how your jaw is functioning that day.

Your evaluation includes detailed assessment of jaw opening range, deviation patterns, joint sounds, and disc position testing. We also evaluate the cervical spine and postural factors that may be contributing to your jaw mechanics.

Treatment outcomes for jaw clicking and locking are generally very positive. Many patients see significant reduction in clicking frequency and intensity within four to six weeks. For patients experiencing locking episodes, the goal is to eliminate locking and build long-term joint stability. A typical course of care runs six to ten sessions.

If conservative treatment does not achieve adequate results, we will discuss whether referral to a TMJ specialist or oral surgeon may be appropriate for your case. We coordinate with your dentist and other providers to ensure a comprehensive approach.

For your first visit, wear comfortable clothing that allows access to your neck and jaw. Bring your insurance card and any relevant dental records or imaging. Delaware does not require a physician referral to begin physical therapy, and we accept Medicare and most major insurance plans. Our office staff will verify your benefits before your first appointment.