Is Your Jaw Locking or Stuck?
Get Relief Without Surgery
Jaw locking is more than an annoyance — it can be a warning sign of serious dysfunction. We offer proven, non-invasive treatments that address the root cause.
What Is Jaw Locking?
Definition: A condition where the jaw becomes stuck in an open or closed position due to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.
Symptoms:
- Inability to open or close the mouth fully
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Pain while chewing
- Accompanying headaches or facial pain
Why It’s Important to Treat Jaw Locking
Health Impact:
- Strongly associated with excessive daytime sleepiness and headaches
- Can signal orthopedic craniofacial dysfunction and sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBDs)
Quality of Life:
- Limits eating, talking, and sleeping comfortably
- Often worsens without intervention, leading to disc displacement in the jaw joint
Who We Help
Individuals with:
- Clicking or locking jaw
- Unresolved migraines or facial pain
- Daytime fatigue or insomnia
- Failed results from bite guards or dental treatments
Real Risks of Ignoring It
Not Just a Jaw Problem:
Jaw locking is statistically linked with poor sleep and chronic fatigue due to its ties with sleep apnea and other SRBDs.
Compounding Effects:
It can worsen headaches, disrupt sleep, and increase cortisol and sympathetic nervous system activity (your body’s “fight or flight” mode).
Commonly Asked Questions
What causes jaw locking or a stuck jaw?
Jaw locking is often caused by TMJ disorders, disc displacement, or nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism). Stress and poor jaw alignment can also lead to a locked or stuck jaw.
- Athletes demonstrate more efficient movement and greater symmetry in high-stress actions.
- EMG testing reveals improved firing of fast-twitch muscle fibers.
Is jaw locking a sign of TMJ disorder?
Yes, a locking jaw is a common symptom of TMJ dysfunction. It may also come with clicking sounds, facial pain, or headaches.
- Reduced oxygen debt and faster recovery
- Lower respiratory rate during intense intervals
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Can a locked jaw be fixed without surgery?
Absolutely. Most TMJ-related jaw locking can be treated with non-surgical options like custom orthotics, neuromuscular therapy, and airway support.
- Lower cortisol and lactic acid levels
- Shorter recovery windows
- Enhanced clarity and stamina during back-to-back training
What are the treatment options for TMJ jaw locking?
We use non-invasive TMJ treatments, including jaw realignment, night guards, and sleep-focused therapies that address the root cause — not just the symptoms.
- Protects neck, shoulders, and lower back from overuse
- Promotes long-term musculoskeletal health
When should I see a specialist for jaw locking?
If your jaw frequently locks, pops, or causes pain while chewing or talking, it’s time to consult a TMJ specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Protects neck, shoulders, and lower back from overuse
- Promotes long-term musculoskeletal health
Our Non-Surgical Approach
Comprehensive Evaluation:
We Treat the Root, Not Just the Symptoms: We use advanced intake methods that assess craniofacial pain and sleep pathology, not just the jaw in isolation.Custom Treatment Plans May Include:
- Biomechanical realignment and TMJ orthotic therapy
- Neuromuscular re-education
- Nighttime stabilization devices
- Airway management strategies (if SRBD is suspected)
- Headache and sleep assessment tools like the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)
Get In Touch
We love hearing from YOU! Send us your questions and inquiries, we will be happy to assist you.