Member Comments are provided by individuals and reflect their personal opinions only. Under NO circumstances should you act on any advice or opinion posted in this forum.  ALWAYS check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health! MedHelp International and our partners, sponsors and affiliates have no obligation to monitor any comments posted on this site, or the content and/or accuracy of such exchanges. MedHelp International does not endorse the views of any user.
Dental Health  (Expert Forum)
 | 
Clicking Jaw
Answered by
Questions in the Dental Health forum are answered by Dr. Jerome Tsang and Dr. Jerome Bogin. Topics covered include bridges, cavities, crowns, and x-rays.

Clicking Jaw

by icemanpilot, Oct 10, 2005 12:00AM
I used to chew gum a lot (4 times a day) and after about a year I couldn't open my jaw wider than about 3cm because it locked and hurt. When I tried to force it open (painful), a loud click happened. I've stopped chewing gum for about 2 years and it’s got a bit better, but when i open my mouth wide, a slight click and grind can still be heard.

Is this because chewing gum only required the mouth to open a little bit and the jaw gets used to the little movement?
Will it ever go back to normal?

P.S. Couldn't find a category for this topic, just chose Dental Infections.

by Jerome Bogin, D.D.S. , Oct 10, 2005 12:00AM
You have a dysfunction in the TMJ area. The clicking and grinding are not normal and should be addressed. I would suggest that you consult a dentist that specializes in TMJ dysfunction.
Continue discussion
RSS Expert Activity
H1N1 and Our Pets
Nov 05 by Thomas Dock, Vet. Technician
In the ER: A Unicorn's Journey
Nov 03 by Jon Geller, D.V.M.
Doctors Resign Over Coca-Cola Fundi...
Nov 03 by Adam Tanase, D.C.