how do I stop my jaw from cracking?

Question

In this past year i had many problems with my teeth and i had to go to the dentist a lot and tehy forced me to keep my mouth open and that's when i messed up my jaw. I was wondering if there is a way to stop it from cracking

Answer 1

Patients that I have seen that had problems staying open during dental appointments or had very sore jaws following a long appointment usually were patients who clenched their teeth. This is called Bruxism and it is very common. During sleep we take our frustrations and stress out on our teeth. Many don't even know they are doing it. Some even clench and grind during daily activities...driving, sports, work. This constant pressure being placed on the teeth tires the jaw muscles out and causes them to tighten up or spasm. You can try taking an antiinflammatory medication for several days, and you may try using very warm towels on your jaw, both sides. Think of it as a sprain and treat it the same way. Don't chew gum, eat tough meat or chewy foods. It needs some TLC. You may consider asking about a night time appliance to help keep your teeth apart. We use one that is very small that fits your 2 front teeth. It is called the NTI. A dentist has to make it for you. It really helps relieve the strain on your muscles and protects the enamel or restorations from constant wear over the years. Good luck.

Answer 2

There are some physiotherapy exercises which you can do which may help. The dentist i work with recommends them to any patients who have TMJ symptoms.

First one is to put the heel of your hand against your chin and try to open your mouth. Dont actually open your mouth though! Use your hand to push against your chin. Hold this for about 10secs and repeat as often as you can during the day.

Next one is to do the same thing on the side. Place your hand against your lower jaw and try and push your jaw sideways into your hand but dont actually let your jaw move. Hold for 10secs then do the same on the other side. Again repeat this as often as possible.

Anti-inflammatories such as Nurofen will help. Take as directed on the box for 5 days, regardless if you have symptoms or not.

See your dentist about getting a splint made for you. They are not uncomfortable to wear and really do work. If you are grinding at night then its better to grind the splint and not your teeth!

Also next time you need dental treatment, ask them to use a jaw prop, its like a wedge to keep your mouth open but it will help prevent your jaw tiring.

Hope this helps!

Answer 3

You need to see your dentist in reference to this. There are conditions which cause this. Since you had a lot of work done it maybe something that the dentist did - in reshaping teeth etc. Your dentist will also be able to rule out TMJ - which causes jaw cracking.

Answer 4

HELLO,
NANCY S. IS CORRECTIN HER ANSWER. MY PATIENTS ABSOLUTELY LOVE THEIR NTI APPLIANCE.