TMJ Disorder vs. Lockjaw: How to Tell the Difference

Locked Jaw vs. TMJ Disorder: What’s the Difference and When Should You Seek Help?

"Lockjaw" is sometimes used loosely as an umbrella term for all TMJ-related disorders — but the two are not the same thing. Understanding the distinction matters because the cause and treatment can differ significantly.

Learn about TMJ diagnosis and treatment at our Gilbert dental office  →  East Valley TMJ

What Is Jaw Lock?

A locked jaw can be caused by a displaced TMJ disc or temporomandibular joint dislocation. The jaw-catching or locking sensation typically occurs when the disc falls out of position and the jaw becomes misaligned. Patients with jaw lock may also experience headaches, migraines, and ear pain. Having TMJ issues does not necessarily result in a locked jaw — it is one possible symptom, not a guaranteed outcome.

How Are Jaw Lock and TMJ Related?

Jaw lock is one symptom that can occur within the broader spectrum of TMJ conditions. It is typically caused by a displaced articular disc and characterized by muscle and joint inflammation. Treatment can include physical therapy, muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatories, oral devices, or occasionally oral surgery.

Causes of Locked Jaw

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD)

TMD causes pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, and can result in locking, throbbing pain, and sensitivity in or around the ear, jaw, and face. Pain during chewing and clicking sounds are also common.

Stress

Stress can cause jaw clenching and teeth grinding both during sleep and while awake, resulting in pain, stiffness, and tension headaches.

Bruxism

Teeth grinding and clenching can be caused by stress, genetics, or misaligned teeth. It can produce facial, neck, and jaw stiffness, as well as headaches.

Tetanus

Tetanus is a severe bacterial infection and one of the few actual causes of true lockjaw. It affects the muscles and nervous system, starting in the neck and jaw before spreading.

Medication

Certain medications — particularly anti-nausea drugs like metoclopramide and some antipsychotics — can interfere with nerve function and cause jaw muscle spasms.

Treatment Options

Night Guard

A custom night guard prevents enamel-on-enamel contact and reduces the effects of bruxism. Custom-made options are more effective than over-the-counter ones.

Medications

Pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help alleviate jaw discomfort. Muscle relaxants or antidepressants may also be prescribed.

Surgical Treatment

Reserved for severe cases that have not responded to conservative management.

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Experiencing Jaw Locking or TMJ Pain? See Dr. Garza in Gilbert.

Dr. John A. Garza DDS, LVIF, FIAPA, FICOI can evaluate your condition and help you find relief from lockjaw and other TMJ symptoms. No referral needed — book online or call (480) 539-7979.

About the Author

Dr. John A. Garza DDS, LVIF, FIAPA, FICOI has been practicing dentistry in Gilbert, AZ since 1994. He is highly trained in neuromuscular and physiologic dentistry, with extensive experience diagnosing and treating TMJ disorder, orofacial pain, and jaw dysfunction. One of fewer than 500 dentists worldwide to hold the LVIF designation from the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.