Jaw Clicking and Popping: When It’s Normal and When to Get Help

Jaw Clicking and Popping: When It’s Normal and When to Get Help

It can be alarming to hear your jaw click or pop when you chew, yawn, or open wide. Many patients ask, “Should I be worried about this?” The short answer is: not always.

Not every case of TMJ disc displacement or joint noise needs treatment. In fact, for many people, jaw clicking is harmless and doesn't lead to long-term problems—especially if it isn’t painful or limiting your function.

Understanding What Causes the Click

Jaw clicking or popping often happens when the disc inside the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) moves out of its normal position and then returns during jaw movement. This is called disc displacement with reduction, and it’s extremely common.

You might notice:

• A click or pop when opening your mouth

• A second click when closing

• No pain or restriction with eating, talking, or yawning

If these are your only symptoms, you may not need to do anything at all.

You’re Not Alone—And It’s Usually Fine

Research shows that somewhere between 25% and 33% of people have asymptomatic disc displacement in their TMJ. That means up to one-third of the population has clicking or popping without pain, locking, or functional problems.

Just like joints in your fingers or knees can crack or pop without any underlying issue, the TMJ can make noise and still be completely healthy.

When Clicking Doesn’t Require Treatment

If your jaw makes noise but you have no pain, no difficulty chewing, no changes in motion, and no other symptoms—it’s usually considered a variation of normal.

In most cases:

• There’s no damage being done

• Clicking does not lead to arthritis or joint breakdown

• The joint remains stable and functional

Monitoring is all that’s needed. Many people live with jaw clicking for years—or forever—without any worsening of symptoms.

When to Seek Help

You should see a physical therapist or healthcare provider if you also notice:

• Pain with chewing, talking, or yawning

• Locking (inability to open or close fully)

• Changes in bite or how your teeth come together

• Tension or fatigue in your jaw, neck, or face

• Worsening clicking over time or associated headaches

These signs suggest your body may be compensating or that the disc/joint mechanics need attention.

What Can You Do at Home?

If you’re not in pain and your function is fine, the best thing to do is avoid overthinking it. But there are a few simple habits that can help keep things balanced:

• Avoid resting your chin on your hand

• Don’t chew gum constantly

• Keep large mouth openings (like yawning wide) controlled

• Stay aware of stress-related clenching or jaw tension

• Use mirror feedback if you notice your jaw tracking off-center

The Bottom Line

Not every joint noise needs to be treated. If your jaw clicks or pops but doesn’t hurt, lock, or interfere with daily activities, it’s probably nothing to worry about. But if things change—or if you’re unsure—it’s worth getting evaluated.

Want to Know for Sure?

I treat patients in the Richmond and Henrico County area at H2 Health in Glen Allen, VA, with a specialty in TMJ dysfunction and jaw-related issues. If you’re unsure whether your clicking needs attention, I can help evaluate your joint mechanics and guide you toward relief—or reassurance.

Click here to schedule an appointment at H2 Health Richmond
Or browse the TMJ FAQ page for more helpful answers.

Note: The views expressed in this blog are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of my employer.