TMJ Unlocking Procedure
When Your Jaw Won’t Open Normally
A jaw that suddenly becomes difficult or impossible to open or close fully can be painful, frustrating, and sometimes frightening. This condition is commonly referred to as a “closed lock” and may occur when the cushioning disc inside the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) becomes displaced and prevents the jaw from moving normally.
At TMJ Relief 360, we offer a specialized TMJ unlocking procedure designed to restore movement to the joint and, when possible, reposition the displaced disc.
What Causes a Locked Jaw?
Inside each TMJ is a small cartilage disc that helps the jaw move smoothly as you open and close your mouth. Normally, this disc moves with the jaw joint.
In some patients, the disc can shift out of its normal position and become trapped in front of the joint. When the disc does not return to its proper position as the mouth opens, it can physically restrict movement of the jaw.
Symptoms may include:
- Sudden or progressive difficulty opening the mouth
- A noticeable decrease in how wide you can open
- Pain or pressure in front of the ear
- Difficulty eating or biting into foods
- A feeling that the jaw is “stuck”
- A history of clicking or popping that suddenly stopped when the jaw became locked
What Is the TMJ Unlocking Procedure?
The TMJ unlocking procedure is a minimally invasive treatment used to address a jaw that has become locked due to displacement of the disc within the joint.
The procedure involves an injection into the affected joint, followed by controlled manual manipulation of the lower jaw. This allows the doctor to carefully guide the joint in an effort to release the restriction, reposition the displaced disc, and restore a more normal range of motion.
When successful, patients may experience an immediate improvement in their ability to open and move the jaw.
Following the procedure, additional treatment may be recommended to help stabilize the joint, maintain the restored disc position, and reduce the likelihood of the jaw becoming locked again.
What Happens After the Jaw Is Unlocked?
Restoring movement is only part of the procedure. Once the joint has been unlocked, stabilizing and protecting the joint is essential while the surrounding tissues begin to adjust.
A temporary stabilization device will be created for you at the unlocking appointment and is an expected part of the procedure. This temporary appliance is used immediately following the manipulation to help support the jaw and maintain the improved joint relationship during the initial stabilization period.
Depending on your individual condition and how the joint responds, a custom long-term Joint Stabilization Device (JSD) may also be recommended as part of your ongoing treatment plan.
Additional follow-up care, exercises, physical therapy, or activity modifications may also be recommended to support healing and maintain healthy jaw movement.
Is the Procedure Always Successful?
Although unlocking is successful in most cases, it may not always be possible to reposition the disc or restore the desired relationship between the disc and jaw joint through manipulation.
It is also possible for a successfully repositioned disc to become displaced or locked again. In some cases, a second manipulation may be necessary.
If the joint cannot be successfully unlocked or conservative treatment is no longer appropriate, referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon may be recommended.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
A sudden loss of normal jaw movement should be evaluated promptly. The longer a joint remains locked, the more difficult it may become to restore normal movement and disc position as inflammation and changes within the joint develop.
If your jaw has suddenly become stuck, your opening has noticeably decreased, or a previously clicking joint has stopped clicking and now feels restricted, contact TMJ Relief 360 for an evaluation as soon as possible.
Get Your Jaw Moving Again
A locked jaw doesn’t necessarily mean surgery. For appropriate patients, manual TMJ manipulation may provide a conservative way to restore movement and address the displaced disc responsible for the restriction.
Contact TMJ Relief 360 to schedule an evaluation for a locked or restricted jaw.