Jaw 'pops' out every so often

[AcidLemons]

Recently I discovered that my jaw pops out, not completely as I can still move it. But when it does come out, I feel my muscles pulling in my jaw. I don't think it comes completely out, but I do have to move my jaw side to side to make it fit 'right' again. I'm confused about what this is, and a little worried. I did manage to run into a door in the middle of dec.(8 stitches) So could this be causing problems? If not, what is it and what can I do about it?

[nursepatient]

Sounds like TMJ disorder.  Thes is when your temporal-mandibular joint (top and bottomjaw bones) cartilage doesn't line up correctly or is deteriorating. Some surgical procedures can fix it (painful and long recovery), which I don't recommend unless you are in pain now or it is affecting you ability to eat and speak.  Otherways, I wouldn't worry about it.  I have had it for 15 years, no ill effcts exept tension which is massagable and grinding of teeth when I sleep.  Your dentist/orthodontist could also fit you with a plastci mouth guard to wear while you sleep which could decrease daytime tension.

[maryheather]

There are also some "streches" that your dentist can show you to help loosen the muscle tension in those joints.  I couldn't tell that they were helping out immediately, but after I did them for a few days, I did notice the problem diminishing.  Good luck-MH

[maryheather]

I also meant to tell you not to chew gum.  That is very harmful for someone with TMJ, because when you chew gum, most people don't chew straight up and down..but the bottom jaw has a tendency to move from side to side.  Gum=not good.

[AcidLemons]

It has recently beomce so bad that it pops out almost comnstantly. It seems to move more out of place than before, it feels like a pulling feeling, until I move it back into place. Thanks for your help, and I will talk to my doctor about this.

[RrPepper]

Could you imagine Jaws with that problem?