Clicking of the Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

Clicking is a very common sign of TMJ among the general population and it is seen in the everyday clinic. Patients may be presented with a single click, reciprocal click, functional disc dislocation with or without reduction. Anatomically, the sound is heard due to the displacement of the articular disc anteromedial direction. There are several etiologies that vary from parafunctional activities, such as clenching and bruxism, to psychological stress and trauma, which is the most common etiological factor that directly causes clicking. Fortunately, treatment is not always required, however if needed conservative therapy, splint therapy and botulinum toxin have proven to be helpful in treating clicking.