Why does my jaw click and sometimes lock? - #18503
I experience a clicking / cracking sound in my jaw when opening and closing my mouth. If I try to open my mouth a little wider than usual, it only opens halfway up to the point where the sound occurs, and then it stops. After some time, when my jaw relaxes, I am able to open my mouth fully again. Sometimes my jaw feels tight or stretched. This tightness is mild normally, but it becomes much more noticeable during periods of stress. I eat using both sides of my mouth normally. This problem has been present for approximately 13–14 years. Chewing hard foods (such as bubble gum or tough foods) causes my jaw to lock, which is why I stopped eating hard foods a long time ago. There is no noticeable swelling. My face shape appears slightly asymmetrical near the chin area. I am not sure whether this is related to my jaw problem or if it has been present since birth, as I did not notice it during childhood.
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Doctors’ responses
Hello dear As per clinical history it seems occlusal discrepancy causing malocclusion and clicking sound Probably there are chances of fibrosis and myalgia I suggest you to please get clinical evaluation done with nearby dentist for better clarity In addition please get get opg or cbct done to rule out exact etiology Regards
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