Jaw clicking when you eat?!
Question: Jaw clicking when you eat?
Answers:
It could be 5 things that I know of:
Typical arthritis
A temporo-mandibular joint issue (TMJ), caused by abnormal stress or wear of the joint/supporting structures. Consult a doctor or dentist, but mental stress is an even bigger culprit than (gum) chewing practices here. Stress causes jaw-clenching and bruxism (teeth grinding) which in turn overtaxes the jaw
Dislocation or an alignment issue. A chiropractor, osteopath or similar can help
A sinus issue. There are several in the face, including near the jaw/ear. Decongestants can help unblock the sinuses
An ear issue. Decongestion needed. Treat for allergies or infection.
Think of which is most likely to affect your friend/dad, and maybe suggest something in a way as not to embarass him. This seems like something that can be socially damaging, and you don't want to see them get hurt. If they refuse to listen then that's another thing, and you might have to be more direct.
Experience with animals and human healthcare.
I'm not sure what causes it but there may be multiple reasons behind it so go see a doctor if it's a concern...
My jaw clicks when I eat but I can also slide my jaw forward to a degree unhinge it... I;ve freaked out a few dental assistants in my day.
I sometimes grind my teeth in my sleep but it;s never been any real issue aside from pissing my wife off occasionally
sounds like tmj, which usually comes with other unpleasant symptoms like frequent headaches. Sleeping with a mouthguard can help. Chiropractic adjustments can also get things aligned. Usually tmj folks grind their teeth at night, so lowering stress can sometimes help, too.
former tmj sufferer
go see a doctor maybe he'll help :)