Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 11/14/2009

Question
Hello. My question is concerning my jaw. I am scared because every time I put my teeth together and open my mouth I almost always get a guaranteed snap/crack (i am not sure) in my ear. If I do it close to other people's ear they can hear it as well. I used to joke around with it to gross people out. But this morning Saturday, November 14th It is a smack like clapping hands or banging two bricks together. A couple of times it sounds like sand is falling down next to my ear as I slowly opened my mouth. I know its my jaw though and I don't want to accidentally break my jaw or cause permanent damage to my jaw. Because I cant chew, talk, or open my mouth.  

Answer
Hello Cristian,

   The TMJ joint has a cartilage disc that can become irritated, swollen, or slip forward (which causes the "locking" of the TMJ joint.  Once the TMJ joint or disc is irritated you will want to ice and avoid any chewy food, gum, bread, etc.  The pain can be severe and may take a couple weeks to resolve, more you ice and rest the jaw the better.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.