What Is Jaw Locking?

Jaw locking refers to difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully, or feeling like your jaw is “getting stuck” in one position. It can happen:

 

• First thing in the morning

• While chewing, yawning, or talking

• After long periods of clenching or stress

 

You may also hear popping or clicking sounds, feel pain near the ear, or notice that your bite feels off.

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Why Is My Jaw Locking?​​

Jaw locking can be caused by:

• TMJ disc displacement (when the cartilage disc inside your joint slips out of place)​​

• Jaw clenching or grinding (overworks the muscles and stresses the joint)

• TMJ hypermobility (when the jaw moves too far or too freely, leading to instability)

• Arthritis or joint inflammation

• Jaw injury or trauma

• Muscle spasms or tightness

 

Even if the locking comes and goes, it’s a sign that your jaw joint needs attention.

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Jaw Locking Treatment Options

At Colorado TMJ and  Facial Pain, we specialize in diagnosing and treating jaw joint problems so you can get back to eating, talking, and living comfortably again.​

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We offer gentle, non-surgical care for jaw locking, including:

• Custom TMJ Appliances
  Designed to reduce pressure and support proper jaw alignment — especially during sleep

• Trigger Point Injections
  Target tense jaw muscles and help restore motion

• Laser Therapy
  Reduces inflammation and improves joint function using therapeutic light

• Botox for Muscle Spasms
  Calms overactive muscles and prevents locking caused by tension

• Stretching, Posture, and Home Therapy Plans
  We’ll guide you through jaw-friendly habits that make a difference​​