Referring Doctors Request Appointment Give Dion Health TMJ a phone call at 415-570-2841 Contact
Give Dion Health TMJ a phone call at 415-570-2841

What is a locked jaw?

A locked jaw occurs when the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) experiences dysfunction, causing the jaw to become stuck in a closed or open position. This condition can be temporary or chronic, often resulting from the misalignment or displacement of the jaw joint’s disc. At San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, we’re here to help you understand locked jaw, its symptoms, effective treatments, and experience real-world, long-term relief.

There is never a condition “too complex”

Contact Us Today
close up smiling face

Symptoms of locked jaw

Recognizing the symptoms of a locked jaw is crucial for early intervention and relief. Common symptoms include:

  • Inability to fully open or close the mouth
  • Pain or discomfort when attempting to move the jaw
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding noises during jaw movement
  • Facial muscle tension or tightness
  • Headaches and earaches
  • Difficulty eating or speaking

Treatments for locked jaw

If you are experiencing a locked jaw, it is essential that you call and contact us immediately so as to minimize the duration of the locked jaw as best as possible. Our team offers effective locked jaw treatments in San Francisco & the East Bay tailored to your specific needs. Our treatments may include:

Advanced diagnostics and treatment plans

We assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan to resolve the root cause.

Orthodontics and MSE

For cases requiring jaw realignment, we utilize advanced orthodontic solutions, including Maxillary Skeletal Expanders (MSE), to improve jaw function without the need for surgery.

Myofunctional therapy

This therapy focuses on retraining the muscles and tissues surrounding the jaw, alleviating tension, and promoting proper jaw movement.

Physical therapy

Our in-house physical therapy services aim to enhance jaw function, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being.

Why choose us for locked jaw treatment?

  • Comprehensive care: We offer a holistic approach to locked jaw treatment, addressing all symptoms of this uncomfortable condition.
  • Expertise: Our team specializes in TMJ disorders and has a track record of extraordinary success in treating locked jaw cases.
  • Personalized treatment: Every patient is unique, and our customized treatment plans reflect this individualized approach.
  • Minimally invasive solutions: We prioritize non-surgical treatments whenever possible, ensuring a comfortable and efficient recovery.
Banner media

Holistic Treatments for a Better Smile, a Better Life

Contact Us Today
Doctor media

Founder & Clinical Director Amin Samadian, D.D.S.

Dr. Samadian is a graduate of the prestigious University of the Pacific Dental School in San Francisco. He has years of clinical hands-on training in full-mouth rehabilitation, cosmetics, implantology, and jaw dysfunction disorders. With a parallel clinical interest and pathway, He continued building his particular set of skills over the years by completing training and coursework in TMD and Sleep Breathing Disorders with the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and the Misch Institute.

About Our Founder About Dion Health

Discover relief and freedom.

If you’re experiencing locked jaw or related symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea. Relief and freedom from the constraints of locked jaw are within reach. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards regaining your quality of life.

Background media

Locked Jaw FAQ

What is a locked jaw, and what causes it?

What are the common symptoms of locked jaw?

How is locked jaw diagnosed?

Can locked jaw be temporary or chronic?

What treatments are available for a locked jaw?

Is surgery required to treat locked jaw?

How long does it take to recover from locked jaw treatment?

Can a locked jaw lead to other health issues?

How can I prevent a locked jaw?

Why should I choose the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea for locked jaw treatment?

What is a locked jaw, and what causes it?

Locked jaw, medically known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) lockjaw or jaw locking, occurs when the jaw becomes stuck in a closed or open position due to dysfunction in the TMJ. Common causes include disc misalignment, muscle tension, or joint inflammation.

What are the common symptoms of locked jaw?

  • Inability to fully open or close the mouth
  • Pain or discomfort when attempting to move the jaw
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding noises during jaw movement
  • Facial muscle tension or tightness
  • Headaches and earaches
  • Difficulty eating or speaking

How is locked jaw diagnosed?

A diagnosis of locked jaw typically involves a thorough examination by a TMJ specialist. Diagnostic tools may include X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess the condition of the TMJ and rule out other potential issues.

Can locked jaw be temporary or chronic?

Yes, locked jaw can be either temporary or chronic. Temporary episodes may resolve on their own or with conservative treatments, while chronic cases may require more extensive intervention.

What treatments are available for a locked jaw?

  • Orthodontics and MSE: Advanced orthodontic solutions for jaw realignment.
  • Myofunctional therapy: Retraining of jaw muscles and tissues.
  • Physical therapy: Improving jaw function and reducing pain.
  • Non-surgical approaches: Minimally invasive treatments prioritized for comfort and efficiency.

Is surgery required to treat locked jaw?

Surgery is typically considered a last resort for severe and persistent cases of locked jaw. Many individuals find relief through non-surgical treatments, such as orthodontics, physical therapy, and myofunctional therapy.

How long does it take to recover from locked jaw treatment?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment. Non-surgical treatments may offer quicker recovery, while surgical interventions require a longer healing period.

Can a locked jaw lead to other health issues?

Yes, untreated or chronic locked jaw can lead to various health issues, including headaches, earaches, facial pain, and difficulty eating or speaking. Addressing a locked jaw early can help prevent these complications.

How can I prevent a locked jaw?

While not all cases can be prevented, some strategies may help reduce the risk of a locked jaw, such as practicing good oral hygiene, managing stress, and resolving contributing issues such as teeth grinding or a misaligned jaw.

Why should I choose the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea for locked jaw treatment?

At the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, we specialize in TMJ disorders and offer comprehensive, personalized treatments. Our focus on minimally invasive solutions and our visionary founder, Dr. Amin Samadian, make us a trusted choice for relief from the locked jaw and related conditions.

Schedule Your Appointment

Contact Us Today
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 415-570-2841.
Contact Us