As a parent, you know the soundtrack of your teen’s life—music, laughter, chatter and maybe even the occasional complaint about aches and pains. But if your child starts mentioning a strange clicking or popping sound in their jaw, it is natural to wonder: Is this just a quirky growing pain, or something more serious?
In some cases, this sound may be harmless. But in others, it can signal a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ disorder. Here is what you need to know to decide whether that click warrants closer attention.
Understanding TMJ and Its Role in Jaw Function
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are located on either side of the head, connecting the jawbone to the skull. These small but powerful joints act like sliding hinges, enabling essential movements like chewing, speaking and yawning.
For most people, the TMJs work smoothly and silently. But when they become misaligned, inflamed or strained, clicking, popping or even locking can occur, often accompanied by discomfort or pain.
Why Teens Are Not Immune to TMJ Issues
While TMJ disorders are more commonly associated with adults, especially women in their 20s to 40s, teens are far from immune. In fact, several factors make adolescents particularly vulnerable:
- Orthodontic changes: Braces and shifting teeth can place stress on the bite and jaw joints.
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism): This often stress-related habit can overwork the jaw muscles and irritate the TMJs.
- Rapid growth spurts: The face and jaw develop quickly during adolescence, sometimes leading to temporary imbalance.
- High device use: Constant phone or tablet use can lead to poor posture, which in turn affects jaw alignment and muscle tension
If your teen is experiencing recurrent or painful clicking, it is worth considering whether TMJ dysfunction could be the root cause.
Symptoms to Watch For Beyond the Click
Clicking or popping sounds are not always signs of serious trouble—sometimes they come and go without any impact. But when they are frequent, loud, painful or accompanied by other symptoms, that is when it is time to take action.
Encourage your teen to speak up if they are experiencing any of the following:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Difficulty chewing or jaw locking
- Frequent headaches, especially near the temples
- Ear pain, pressure or a sensation of fullness without infection
- Neck and shoulder stiffness
- A change in how their teeth fit together
TMJ disorder can affect more than just the mouth—it can influence sleep, nutrition, mood and school focus. That is why early detection and proper care matter.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If TMJ disorder is suspected, a qualified dentist or TMJ specialist can perform a thorough evaluation. This often includes reviewing your teen’s medical and dental history, physically examining the jaw and possibly ordering imaging (like X-rays or 3D scans).
The good news? Most TMJ issues in teens can be treated conservatively with non-invasive strategies, such as:
- Custom night guards to reduce grinding and clenching
- Orthodontic adjustments to correct bite misalignment
- Physical therapy or jaw exercises
- Stress management techniques
- Postural correction
Typically, only in rare or severe cases is surgical intervention considered.
When to Make the Call
If your teen has been complaining about jaw noises, pain or related discomfort that persists beyond a few days or weeks, we caution against brushing it off as “just growing pains.” These symptoms could indicate something deeper is going on, and a quick visit to a TMJ-aware dental provider can give you the answers you need.
Your teen’s health, comfort and confidence matter. Let our experienced team help them face the world, without jaw pain holding them back. We are here to listen, evaluate and create a personalized plan that supports their long-term well-being.
