Dental question re jaw clicking and tenderness near jaw about 10 days ago, i bit into a slice of pizza and soon after heard clicking (though no jaw pain and i can still move/use the jaw). i've been told that i irritated the tmj and that the clicking will

Some : Some dental offices or oral surgeons can take specialized images of the TMJ area to further evaluate it and then suggest a treatment option(s).

You : You do seem to have a good understanding of your problem. The initial advice and treatment recommendations your were given are appropriate and are often the first steps taken (as they are the most conservative). Most acute TMJ injuries are self healing over time regardless of what measures are taken. Sometimes the clicking will persist (and as long as you are not experiencing acute pain or episodes of the jaw locking (i.e., temporary inability to open or close), i would follow these initial instructions for 2-4 weeks. You can follow up with your dentist or an oral surgeon so that an appropriate xray is taken that can determine if there is any obvious injury or disease of the joint.

THESE : These are good questions and you are well informed and have articulated your situation clearly. It is my suspicion that you had a pre- existing condition with your temporo mandibular joint that suddenly became apparent as you tried to bite through that delicious pizza and card crust, and yes with no previous recollection of joint injury that particular episode tripped you over the edge by tearing or over extending the ligaments that restrain the capsule in the joint. I recommend a soft diet, avoid yawning if at all possible do not open your mouth wide and avoid talking on the phone on the side affected. Taking anti inflammatory drugs like advil (ibuprofen) is a good idea, but not for long, oh yes! and go and see a dentist who knows about TMJ problems. Dr neil mcleod dds denrtistry that lasts - quality that counts.

Symptoms of TMJ/TMD: Tmj/tmd exhibits a multitude of symptoms. You can go to websites and read up on some of the common symptoms, but a thorough evaluation by a specialist is highly recommended. Some symptoms, such as an infected tooth, cysts, and other causes may mimic "tmj." my website, www.Jbassmantmj.Com shows a symptom list, but you really should be examined to rule TMJ or not.

Agree: As Dr. McLeod stated, you probably had a predisposition to TMJ and you bit the pizza in such a way to displace the disk. You're problems may settle down on your own. Careful with your jaw in the near future. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeing a TMJ specialist.

Things to try..: You may have angered your TMJs. If you can take them...try a NSAID (Ibuprofen 400mg). 4 times a day and eat something. with them. Also, don't open real wide and don't eat hard things. Give your jaws a rest. Warm and cold compresses may help to.