Jaw Clicking After Orthodontics?

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Woman uncomfortable feeling her jaw clicking

TMJ & Sleep Therapy Pittsburgh

Jaw clicking after orthodontics? Braces and aligners help create a confident, healthy smile. But what if—after all the time and investment—your jaw still clicks or pops when you chew or yawn? If you’re experiencing jaw clicking after orthodontics, you’re not alone. Many Pittsburgh patients notice these symptoms after braces or clear aligners—and fortunately, there are highly effective nonsurgical treatments available right here. Learn more about TMJ disorder care

Why Is Your Jaw Clicking After Orthodontics?

During orthodontic treatment, teeth, muscles, and joints must adapt to new positions. Sometimes this reveals a pre-existing issue with the TMJ disc—the soft cushion that keeps the lower jaw moving smoothly. This can cause jaw clicking.
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the joint
  • Morning stiffness or soreness
  • The bite doesn’t feel stable
  • Occasional catching or restricted opening

When Should Jaw Clicking After Orthodontics Be Evaluated? –

  • Clicking lasts more than 3–6 months
  • Pain begins or worsens
  • Jaw feels unstable or locks
  • Symptoms increase over time
  • Nighttime clenching or grinding

Conservative, Nonsurgical TMJ Care

  • PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) injections to reduce inflammation and support healing
  • Custom TMJ orthotics to protect the joint and improve comfort
  • Airway-guided bruxism management

PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Injections

Your own growth factors help:

  • Reduce inflammation

  • Improve joint lubrication

  • Support disc and ligament healing

Custom TMJ Orthotics

Helps:

  • Reduce joint stress

  • Protect against nighttime clenching

  • Maintain a stable bite after ortho

  • Preserve TMJ joint stability and function

These therapies protect the investment you’ve already made in orthodontics.

🡆 Read more about orofacial pain in young patients: /orofacial-pain-treatment/

Why It Matters

Many patients dismiss clicking because it isn’t always painful. However…

If the joint is clicking, it’s usually under strain.

Without care, patients may develop:

  • Recurrent flare-ups

  • Persistent muscle tension

  • Early joint degeneration

  • Locking episodes later in life

Early intervention helps prevent long-term pain.

We Work With Your Teen’s Orthodontist

We support—never undo—your orthodontist’s great work.
Our goal is a smile that looks good and feels good.

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TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh • 1110 Fayette Ave, Belle Vernon, PA 15012 • 724-929-4470

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