Have you ever tried to yawn or take a bite of food, only to find that your jaw refuses to open? Jaw locking can strike suddenly, making simple, everyday actions feel impossible. If this has happened to you, it’s likely due to an issue with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). But why does the jaw sometimes “lock”—and how can it be unlocked?
Let’s explore the common reasons behind jaw locking, the science of TMJ disc displacement, and how a board-certified orofacial pain specialist, like Dr. Levi, can treat this condition and prevent it from recurring.
Why Won’t My Jaw Open? The Surprising Causes of Locking
A locked jaw feels as though the joint is “stuck” in one position, leaving you unable to open your mouth fully. This typically happens due to one of two common causes:
1. Muscle Spasms
The muscles that control your jaw, such as the masseter and temporalis, can become tight or inflamed due to overuse, stress, or underlying conditions. This can lead to painful spasms, restricting how far you can open your mouth.
2. Disc Displacement Without Reduction (Closed Lock)
Inside the TMJ is a small disc, composed of cartilage, that cushions the joint and ensures smooth movement. When this disc slips out of place and stays stuck in the wrong position, it can block the joint and prevent the jaw from opening fully. This is called disc displacement without reduction, also known as a “closed lock.”
What Is Disc Displacement Without Reduction?
Think of the TMJ disc as a sliding cushion that helps your jawbone move smoothly. In disc displacement without reduction, the disc slides out of place and gets stuck in front of the jawbone, physically blocking jaw movement—like a jammed door that won’t swing open.
Symptoms of Disc Displacement Without Reduction:
• Limited ability to open your mouth (20–30mm or less).
• Stiffness or tightness in the jaw.
• Deflection of your jaw upon opening to the affected side.
• Pain or tenderness in front of the ear or along the jawline.
Why Imaging Is Important
Since this condition involves structural changes in the joint, your specialist may recommend MRI imaging to confirm the position of the disc and evaluate the health of the joint. MRI scans provide detailed information that helps guide treatment and rule out other causes, such as joint degeneration or arthritis.
From Lock to Relief: How a Specialist Can Unlock the TMJ
If your jaw is locked due to disc displacement, a board-certified orofacial pain specialist can provide targeted treatments to unlock the joint and restore its normal function.
1. Therapeutic Injections to Release the Lock
Therapeutic injections are often the first step in treatment. They can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and allow the disc to return to its proper position. These may include:
• Intra-Articular (joint) Injections: To reduce inflammation inside the joint and improve mobility.
• Hyaluronic Acid Injections: In some cases, hyaluronic acid is injected into the joint to lubricate and cushion the TMJ. This treatment can reduce joint friction, alleviate pain, and help restore normal movement.
These treatments are designed to relieve discomfort quickly and allow the jaw to regain its range of motion.
2. Anterior Repositioning Appliances to Prevent Relocking
Once the jaw is unlocked, your specialist may fabricate a custom anterior repositioning appliance. This oral device prevents the jaw from falling back keeping the disc in place and preventing future locking episodes. Over time, this helps stabilize the TMJ and allows it to heal.
What About Clicking or Popping Jaws?
If your jaw makes clicking or popping sounds, you might have disc displacement with reduction. In this condition, the disc slips out of place but moves back into position when you open your mouth. While this doesn’t cause the jaw to lock, in some individuals, it may progress to a closed lock over time.
Treatment for disc displacement with reduction depends on a variety of factors. If it is not accompanied by pain of episodic locking, treatment is geared toward conservative measures including behavioral modification. If jaw clicking is accompanied by pain or episodic locking, treatment may include:
• Custom TMJ Orthotics: These stabilize the joint and reduce stress on the disc.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen jaw muscles and improve joint mechanics.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Jaw locking is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a sign of underlying TMJ dysfunction that requires prompt attention. Left untreated, this condition can lead to chronic pain, joint damage, and long-term difficulty with jaw movement.
A board-certified orofacial pain specialist has the expertise to diagnose the problem accurately and provide effective solutions. With advanced imaging like MRI, therapeutic injections—including hyaluronic acid—and custom appliances, they can restore your jaw’s function and help you maintain long-term stability.
Don’t let a locked jaw disrupt your life. Contact Dr. Levi today to take the first step toward lasting relief and comfort.
Comments