TMJ Jaw Locking
Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Locking Treatment in Belle Vernon, PA
Q: What causes lock jaw and jaw locking up?
A: Lock jaw or the jaw locking up often occurs when the TMJ becomes inflamed, displaced, or unable to move smoothly. This can be caused by muscle tension, a displaced disc, trauma, clenching, or underlying airway issues. A TMJ evaluation helps determine the exact cause and the safest treatment path.
Q: How do I fix lock jaw immediately?
A: If you’re wondering how to fix lock jaw immediately, gently applying moist heat, relaxing the jaw muscles, and avoiding wide opening may offer short-term relief. However, these are temporary measures—professional lock jaw treatment is essential to prevent worsening symptoms or recurrent locking.
Q: What is the best lock jaw remedy for long-term relief?
A: The most effective lock jaw remedy depends on the underlying cause. At our centre, treatments may include customized orthotics, TMJ stabilization therapy, muscle retraining, or addressing airway issues. These targeted approaches help restore proper joint function and prevent future episodes.
Q: What is open lock TMJ and how is it treated?
A: Open lock TMJ occurs when the jaw becomes stuck in an open position due to joint instability or disc displacement. Treatment focuses on gently repositioning the joint, reducing inflammation, stabilizing the muscles, and preventing recurrence through customized TMJ therapy.
Q: When should I seek professional jaw lock treatment?
A: You should seek professional care anytime jaw lock happens repeatedly, causes pain, feels unstable, or interferes with eating, speaking, or yawning. Early lock jaw treatment reduces inflammation, corrects joint position, and prevents long-term damage to the TMJ.
Q: How do I find a jaw lock specialist near me?
A: When searching for a jaw lock specialist near me, look for providers who focus on TMJ disorders, airway-related issues, and jaw joint stability. Specialists at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre perform comprehensive evaluations to determine the cause of jaw locking and create a personalized treatment plan.
Learn more about what our patients have to say
about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh