Jaw clicking and aching

[Stargiver]

Since before I was diagnosed with PMR, I had some jaw clicking going on and my dentist suggested some exercises. It has never gone away but lately has been associated with waking up with an ache at the articulation of my lower jaw. I was concerned the aching was possibly an indication of GCA , but it is not temple pain, nor is my scalp tender. I don’t think I grind my teeth at night. Has anyone else had this associated with PMR? I am experiencing a bit of a flare at the moment which is stress related. Annoying to be on a higher dose of pred once more after what I thought was a measured and slow enough taper. However I know I am not alone.

Thanks to this forum.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Now you have written you can see related posts, but it is quite common- maybe have a look at this as well -

webmd.com/oral-health/tempo...

[SnazzyD]

Going on your brief description it sounds like temporomandibular joint dysfunction. People’s experience of GCA can vary but usually the pain isn’t directly in the joint and isn’t associated with clicking. It comes up fairly regularly here. I suffered from it when my muscles became weak with Pred and although it affected the jaw area and around the ear, it didn’t produce the deeply tired muscle feeling when I chewed. It got better as my muscles got stronger.

One can grind or clench teeth in the night and not know it, especially when stressed, so some people have a teeth guard for night time. I’d have hoped the dentist would have been a bit more helpful than just recommended exercises, but perhaps that was a first try.

Have a read of this and related posts on this site.

mayoclinic.org/diseases-con...

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I agree with Snazzy that the most likely answer is TMJ disorder - but surprised the dentist didn't think of that.

A validated screening test for GCA is chewing gum at one chew per second for 2-3 mins which should elicit the ache that is typical of GCA. It then goes when you stop chewing.

[Thelmarina]

I have something similar which the dentist has put down to grinding my teeth at night. It’s mild and I want to avoid a guard if possible. Secretly I just hope it will go away…😱

[Missus835]

My symptoms paralleled yours. Finally I went to my dentist. He diagnosed severe TMJ/TMD and I now use a bite guard 24/7, except when eating. It is custom fitted. Works well and many symptoms gone.

[jarn]

Just a quick word:my jaw was clicking so annoyingly that couldn't chew on a piece of lettuce! It wasn't jaw claudication. Fortunately we have a wonderful Chiropractor who started treating it twice a month, and after 3months, am now "click free". Good luck to you.