Is this tmj? i've noticed over the past six months or so that my jaw clicks when i yawn or open wide, but there is no pain. does this mean that i could have tmj?

Clicking : Clicking on function of the lower jaw typically results from the inter-positional joint disc being out of position. The noise relates to the disc being recaptured on opening or it slipping out of position on closing. A large percentage of individuals have this condition. When there are no accompanying symptoms or dysfunction of the jaw such as open or closed lock, then the condition is typically monitored. Another reason for a joint noise upon wide opening is that the condyle (ball portion of the joint) is translating out of the fossa (cup portion of the joint) over a bony prominence called the eminence. This is caused by hypermobility of the joint. Other than restricting your movement to prevent this extreme excursion treatment is usually only undertaken if there is a funciton disturbance or severe symptoms. I recommend that your be examined by a general dentist or board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon for further information and determination of a need for treatment.

You could: If you are clicking when you yawn or open wide, ther are two possibilities. Firstly you may have what we call a late opening click which means the disc or meniscus is displaced far foreward and is being recaptured by the condyle late in opening. Second possibility is that the disc is fine and the condyle is clicking when it passes over what is called the articular eminence, apart of the skull.

Tmj syndrome: Begin with a general dentist who has done extra training in the subject and who can begin tracking and monitoring your symptoms. The click without pain is normally not treated unless a progression of symptoms appear.

Yes, disk out: Displaced disk. See TMJ expert for guidance. Any dentist can be a TMJ expert with the proper training and experience. Most commonly, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and orofacial pain specialists. Ask your MD, your dentist and your dental society for referrals.