Why is my jaw locking and clicking everytime i open my mouth?

T%MJ dysfunction: This is due to dysfunction of the temporal mandibular joint just below the ear. The cartilage catches on the other side of the joint and clicks as the joint moves. Sometimes the cartilage catches the other side and the jaw locks. If this starts to happen, do not try to close the morth - but keep it open, rock the joint from side to side and yawn and usually the jaw will snap into place.

Because: Because you have Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, probably with the articulate disc out of position. May be caused by bruxism, traune, malocclusion, heredity. See your Dentist. May need Orthodontic and/or oral Surgical consultations.

Very possible: Your jaw may be locked, which means that the articular disk that joins the upper and lower jaws (maxilla and mandible, ) may be out of place. It may be displaced forward and does not allow the mandible to get back to its comfortable position and the lower teeth therefore do not come together.

TMJ disk displaced: Having popping/clicking TMJ noises not necessarily a problem. Many people experience these noises. Without pain or limitation of function the noise itself is not an issue. If you have locking or limited movement, "ear" pain, headaches, morning jaw stiffness/soreness, difficulty chewing, bruxism, previous jaw injuries or other jaw conditions, the problem is more serious. Then see a TMJ specialist.

TMJ disc derangement: While mandibular range of motion is usually normal, occasionally the disc displacement may interfere with joint function. This can cause a momentary "catch" during the translatory cycle.