# Jaw Popping Out of Place: Subluxation, Dislocation, and First Aid > Jaw Popping Out of Place: how to tell subluxation from dislocation, what to do in the first minutes, and how to prevent the next episode. Canonical: https://tmjspecialistguide.com/articles/jaw-popping-out-of-place Last updated: 2026-11-09 ## Key clinical takeaways - Jaw popping out of place describes two different events: subluxation, where the jaw slips forward but returns on its own, and dislocation, where it stays out and the mouth cannot close. - Subluxation is common in people with loose ligaments, and it can happen during a wide yawn, a long dental appointment, or a big bite. - A subluxation feels like a hitch: the jaw slides too far, stops for a second, then clicks back. - Stay calm and support the jaw. - Reduction is usually a controlled maneuver: the clinician supports the jaw, applies gentle downward and backward pressure, and guides the condyle back into the socket. ## Quick answer Jaw popping out of place describes two different events: subluxation, where the jaw slips forward but returns on its own, and dislocation, where it stays out and the mouth cannot close. NIDCR notes that most jaw problems are managed conservatively, and AAOP's guidance starts with an exam. The first aid differs, and forcing the jaw is the one thing to avoid in both. ## Subluxation versus dislocation | Feature | Subluxation | Dislocation | | --- | --- | --- | | What happens | Condyle slides past the joint eminence, then returns | Condyle stays in front of the eminence | | Can you close? | Yes, usually after a moment | No, the mouth stays open | | Pain | Brief, often mild | Often significant, with spasm | | Duration | Seconds | Until reduced | | Urgency | Routine review | Prompt care | Subluxation is common in people with loose ligaments, and it can happen during a wide yawn, a long dental appointment, or a big bite. Dislocation is less common and usually needs a clinician to reduce it. ## What it feels like A subluxation feels like a hitch: the jaw slides too far, stops for a second, then clicks back. There may be a moment of panic and a dull ache afterwards. A dislocation is unmistakable. The mouth is stuck open, the lower jaw juts forward, and speaking and swallowing are difficult. There may be drooling because the lips cannot close properly. The jaw muscles often go into spasm, which adds pain and makes the jaw feel even more fixed. If the jaw is stuck open after a yawn or a dental procedure, assume dislocation until a clinician says otherwise. Do not wait days for a routine appointment. ## First aid in the moment Stay calm and support the jaw. Rest the head against a wall or chair, and hold the jaw gently from below with a hand. Do not try to force it closed, and do not let anyone push it back without training. Apply a cold pack to the side of the face for ten to fifteen minutes if it is available. Cold can reduce spasm and swelling. Avoid opening the mouth further, and do not attempt to eat or drink until the jaw is back. Call a dentist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or emergency department. A dislocation that is reduced early is easier to manage than one that has been out for hours. If there is trouble breathing or swallowing, treat it as an emergency. ## What a clinician does Reduction is usually a controlled maneuver: the clinician supports the jaw, applies gentle downward and backward pressure, and guides the condyle back into the socket. Muscle relaxants or a local anesthetic may be used if spasm is severe. Imaging is not always needed for a first dislocation, but it may be used if there was trauma, if reduction is difficult, or if the joint looks abnormal. AAOMS guidance covers imaging and surgical options for recurrent problems. After reduction, the clinician will check the bite and movement. Most people go home the same day with advice about soft food and limited opening. ## After the jaw is back Give the joint a quiet week. Eat soft food, avoid wide yawns, and support the chin when you yawn or sneeze. Keep the teeth apart and avoid gum. Heat eases a dull ache; ice suits recent sharp pain. Simple pain relief may help if it is safe for you. Do not test the range repeatedly; a single gentle check each day is enough. Follow up with a dentist or TMJ doctor, especially if this has happened before. Recurrent dislocation can damage the joint over time and may need a prevention plan. ## Prevention and recurrent episodes If you have hypermobility, learn to yawn with support: place a hand under the chin or keep the tongue on the roof of the mouth to limit the opening. Avoid wide bites, prolonged dental visits without breaks, and forceful stretching. Physical therapy can help with muscle control and joint awareness. A custom appliance is sometimes used, but evidence is limited and it is not a solution for every case. Surgery is reserved for recurrent dislocation that does not respond to conservative care, and it is uncommon. [Dislocation treatment](https://tmjspecialistguide.com/articles/tmj-dislocation-treatment) covers the clinical procedure, and [TMJ hypermobility](https://tmjspecialistguide.com/articles/tmj-hypermobility) explains the ligament factor. [TMJ and yawning](https://tmjspecialistguide.com/articles/tmj-yawning) gives practical prevention tips. [Jaw locking causes](https://tmjspecialistguide.com/articles/jaw-locking-causes) separates the closed-lock pattern. For follow-up care, the [TMJ doctors directory](https://tmjspecialistguide.com/clinics) lists providers. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the difference between subluxation and dislocation? In subluxation the jaw slips forward but returns on its own. In dislocation it stays out, the mouth cannot close, and a clinician usually needs to reduce it. ### Should I try to pop my jaw back in myself? No. Forcing the jaw can injure the joint, damage teeth, or worsen spasm. Support the jaw, avoid further opening, and get professional help. ### Is a dislocated jaw an emergency? It needs prompt care, especially if you cannot swallow, breathe comfortably, or close your mouth. Go to an emergency department or call a dentist or oral surgeon immediately. ### Why does my jaw keep slipping out? Loose ligaments, hypermobility, wide yawns, and repeated strain can make it recur. A clinician can assess the joint and suggest prevention, including therapy and opening limits. ### Can a night guard prevent jaw dislocation? Not reliably. A guard protects teeth and may reduce clenching, but it does not stabilize a hypermobile joint. Prevention focuses on movement control and avoiding extreme opening. ### When should I see a doctor after my jaw pops out? See someone after any dislocation, and after a subluxation that is new, painful, or recurring. Persistent locking or a bite change also needs assessment. ## References 1. [TMD — National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmd) — NIDCR 2. [American Academy of Orofacial Pain](https://aaop.org/) — AAOP 3. [American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons](https://www.aaoms.org/) — AAOMS 4. [Temporomandibular Disorders — American Dental Association](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/temporomandibular-disorders) — ADA 5. [TMJ disorders — Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/symptoms-causes/syc-20350941) — Mayo Clinic ## Medical disclaimer This page is for general education and is not medical advice. It does not replace an exam by a dentist, physician, or other qualified clinician. 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