Is Jaw Clicking Normal? Understanding TMJ, Jaw Popping & Relief in Portland, OR

Have you ever noticed your jaw making a click or pop when you chew, talk, or yawn? Many people wonder: “Is jaw clicking normal?”

While jaw clicking is COMMON, it’s not NORMAL. Frequent clicking or popping, especially with discomfort, stiffness, or headaches, is often a sign of TMJ dysfunction — a condition where the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) isn’t moving smoothly.

What Causes Jaw Clicking?

Jaw clicking happens when the smooth movement of your jaw joint is disrupted. Common causes include:

• Tight jaw and neck muscles (often from stress or clenching)

• Teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night

• Poor posture — forward head position and slouching can strain the jaw

• Uneven chewing patterns

• Stress & nervous system overload, which often shows up in the jaw and pelvic floor

When these patterns build up, the small disc inside your jaw joint may slip slightly out of place, creating that clicking or popping sound.

When Jaw Clicking Is a Concern

Jaw clicking is never normal. It’s usually an early indicator that something is off.

If you’re noticing these symptoms, it’s time to explore TMJ care in Portland.

Gentle, Whole-Body TMJ Relief in Portland

The good news: jaw clicking and TMJ discomfort are treatable. With a holistic approach — combining gentle chiropractic care, craniosacral therapy, and nervous system regulation — many patients find lasting relief.

Some ways we help:

• Gentle chiropractic adjustments (no popping!)

• Craniosacral therapy to ease jaw and neck tension

• Postural support to align the head, jaw, and pelvis

• Nervous system calming techniques for stress relief

What You Can Do at Home

While professional care is best for persistent symptoms, here are a few self-care tips:

• Practice awareness: notice if you clench your jaw during stress

• Support your posture: sit tall, untuck your pelvis, relax shoulders

• Warm compresses for tight jaw muscles

• Gentle jaw stretches (guided by a practitioner)

Ready to Find Relief?

Jaw clicking doesn’t have to be your “normal.” If you’re in Portland or Lake Oswego and struggling with TMJ pain, jaw clicking, or pelvic floor tension, we’d love to help you connect the dots.

👉 Schedule a visit today and discover gentle, whole-body TMJ care.

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