AboutBenjamin Schwartz, D.D.S. Expertise I can answer a range of questions in dentistry, ranging from cosmetic dentistry, fillings, root canals, and comprehensive treatment. Specifically, my fields of interest are in CEREC technology, Invisalign (Invisable braces), and Endodontics (root canals).
Experience
Licensed and full time general dentist. Treated over 200 Invisalign patients and have placed numerous CEREC restorations.
Website: ProDent NY
Organizations
American Dental Association
Member of the Academy of General Dentistry
New York State Dental Association
CEREC Doctors
League of Dentists
Publications Schwartz Benjamin, Boczko Fae, McKeon S. Oral Care For The Elderly. Perspectives in Gerontology December 2006
Education/Credentials New York University College of Dentistry - D.D.S.
Woodhull Medical Center, 1 year post-graduate residency program - GPR
Question I understand that you have answered a question on this exact problem im having, my lower right jaw pops when I chew,I cannot recall when I first noticed this but it was sometime this year (2008), I read the question and answer but it left me confused, straight up, is this a problem I should be worried about?
Answer Hi Brandon,
In short, if you recently started having 'popping' when you chew in your jaw, then eventually this can become a problem.
If you have pain or discomfort from it, then you should definitely have this checked out ASAP. If there is no pain, but just an un-pleasantness to it, even though it doesn't bother you now, it may be an indicator for future problems down the road.
The muscles in your joint as supposed to work in harmony, allowing your jaw to open and close without friction or interference. If there is something preventing this from happening, then often the jaws will 'click' or 'pop'. Since this is a recent event, it may not bother you now. However, if this interference is left untreated for a long period of time, it can lead to headaches, muscle pain, and discomfort when eating or chewing.
I would recommend seeing a TMD specialist to have this examined more in-depth. It's best to tackle this problem now, while it is still relatively new, then when it's been around for a long time, and causing you discomfort.
