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TMJ & Facial Pain

Why Does My Jaw Click? TMJ Explained

By Dr. Lina Shahinyan, DDS, MS ·

Dentist gently examining a patient’s jaw joint for TMJ pain

A click when you open wide is common. Pain, locking or headaches deserve a closer look.

What the click is

Often the cushioning disc in the joint slipping slightly out of place and back as you open.

When to worry

If clicking comes with pain, locking, limited opening or headaches, schedule a TMJ evaluation.

Conservative care

Custom splints, jaw exercises, soft diet, stress management and posture changes help most patients.

Still have questions?

This article is for general education and isn’t a substitute for an exam. Call us or book a visit for advice about your own smile.

Ready for a calmer kind of dental visit?

New patients get a comprehensive exam, cleaning and X-rays for $59. Most PPO plans and Denti-Cal accepted.

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