Sleep disorders cause all sorts of problems, and they are more common than most people realize. Dr. Jennifer J. Cornell, DDS, at Dental Sleep and TMJ Solutions of Clarksville, has answers to some of the questions that come up about the conditions preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep.

Question: My jaw joints used to click and pop, but then I woke up recently and I couldn’t open all the way. Should I be concerned?

Answer: Yes, you should be somewhat concerned. What you’re describing sounds like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, and the sudden inability to open your mouth wide (known as trismus or “closed lock”) can indicate a more serious shift in the joint.

Here’s what might be going on:

  • Disc displacement without reduction: The cartilage disc inside your TMJ may have shifted out of place and is now preventing the joint from moving normally.
  • Muscle spasm or inflammation: Sometimes tight jaw muscles (especially after clenching or grinding at night) can lock the jaw temporarily.
  • Joint inflammation or internal derangement: Chronic popping/clicking might have progressed to a more severe joint issue.

What to do now:

  • Do not force your mouth open. This can cause more damage.
  • Apply ice or moist heat to the area.
  • Try gentle jaw stretching exercises only if they don’t cause pain.
  • Avoid chewing gum, hard foods, or opening wide (e.g., yawning).
  • Take anti-inflammatory medication (like ibuprofen) if it’s safe for you.

But most importantly:

See a dentist with advanced training in TMD as soon as possible. This kind of locking, especially if it’s a new symptom, needs to be evaluated to prevent long-term issues. A dentist with advanced training in TMD can perform an unlocking procedure and provide a splint to help keep the jaw stable for a period of time. Once this acute issue is resolved, it is recommended to have a thorough exam and possibly imaging to understand the underlying cause of this acute issue and help in preventing it from occurring once again.

For more information, visit the Dental Sleep and TMJ Solutions of Clarksville website or call 931-645-8000.