Chapter 17A: TMJ and Jaw Joint Health

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) — the two joints connecting the lower jaw to the skull, just in front of each ear — occasionally come up in orthodontic discussions, particularly for teenagers and adults reporting jaw clicking, popping, soreness, or difficulty opening the mouth fully.

What's Usually Normal

Occasional, painless clicking or popping in the jaw joint is relatively common and often doesn't require specific treatment on its own. It becomes more relevant when accompanied by pain, locking, or a noticeable, worsening change in how the jaw functions.

How This Relates to Orthodontic Treatment

If your child or teenager mentions jaw pain, clicking with discomfort, or difficulty opening their mouth fully, it's worth raising this specifically and directly at the orthodontic evaluation, rather than assuming it's unrelated.