My Jaw Is Locked Closed — What Should I Do?

Waking up or suddenly realizing that your jaw is locked shut can be a distressing and uncomfortable experience. If you're facing this right now, you're not alone — and help is available.

A locked jaw, medically known as trismus, can stem from a variety of causes, including dental procedures, jaw injuries, disc displacements, or even excessive muscle tension from stress. At My Jaw Physio, trismus is one of the more complex — and rewarding — conditions we treat. In fact, it’s my favorite condition to work with because of how life-changing the results can be for patients.

Let’s walk through what might be causing your jaw to lock, what you can do right away, and how we can help you find relief.

What Is Trismus?

Trismus refers to a restricted ability to open the mouth due to muscle tightness, joint dysfunction, or inflammation in the jaw area. It often makes everyday activities — like eating, speaking, or even yawning — painful or impossible.

Common causes include:

• Muscle spasms or tension

• Displacement of the disc within the jaw joint (TMJ)

• Jaw trauma or post-surgical complications

• Dental infections or procedures

• Stress-induced jaw clenching

Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. If you're unsure what might be behind your locked jaw, a Jaw Physio consultation is the best next step.

What to Do Immediately If Your Jaw Is Locked

If your jaw has recently locked closed, here are a few things you can try at home to ease discomfort:

1. Stick to Soft Foods
   Avoid anything chewy, crunchy, or tough. Focus on soups, smoothies, mashed vegetables, and other easy-to-chew options.

2. Apply Moist Heat
   A warm compress or heat pack placed on the affected jaw for 15–20 minutes can help relax the muscles and reduce pain.

3. Practice Jaw Relaxation
   When at rest, let your jaw hang slightly open with your teeth apart. This position relieves unnecessary tension.

   If you are experiencing pain as well as a locked jaw, you may find this Blog with tips for Jaw Pain helpful

If your jaw has been locked for less than six weeks, your chances for a full, quick recovery are excellent — especially with early intervention. The sooner we begin treatment; the fewer sessions are typically needed. I’ve had great success unlocking jaws, especially within this window, so don’t wait to get in touch.

When to Seek Professional Help

If self-care strategies aren’t helping and your jaw remains locked, it’s time to get professional treatment.

At My Jaw Physio, we specialize in resolving trismus using a tailored, hands-on approach that includes:

• Manual Therapy
  Targeted techniques to release muscle tightness and restore joint mobility.

• Custom Exercise Programs
  Gentle movements and stretches designed to improve jaw function over time.

• Education & Support
  We’ll help you understand your condition and empower you with tools to prevent recurrence.

👉 Book an appointment with us — the sooner we start, the sooner we can help you unlock your jaw and get back to living comfortably.

Final Thoughts

A locked jaw can be both painful and disruptive, but with the right treatment, you can regain full function and get back to your daily life. Early action is key. If your jaw has been locked for less than six weeks, your recovery can be faster and more straightforward.

At My Jaw Physio, we’re here to support you every step of the way — and yes, I genuinely enjoy helping people recover from trismus. It’s incredibly rewarding to see patients smile, eat, and speak freely again.

Don’t wait. Let’s work together to unlock your jaw and restore your quality of life.