Short Answer
Jaw locking can be reviewed through opening range, deviation, catching point, joint sounds, pain defense, and muscle tension.
How to think about it
Images may not capture every movement problem. A functional exam can compare how the jaw opens, where it catches, whether muscles guard the movement, and whether habits or bite load contribute.
Evidence and limits for this question
What this question checks
This page uses the question "Imaging looks normal, but my jaw still locks. What should be checked?" to organize a symptom pattern before assuming a TMJ-related cause.
What to rule out first
Urgent, organ-specific, dental, ENT, neurologic, traumatic, infectious, or breathing-related warning signs should be considered before jaw-related interpretation.
What is reviewed in clinic
Consultation details, symptom timing, jaw movement, chewing muscle tension, bite changes, previous exam results, and recurrence patterns may be reviewed together.
What not to decide from this page
Do not use this page alone to choose a diagnosis, appliance, procedure, medication, or emergency response.
Safety note
A suddenly locked jaw, trauma, swelling, fever, inability to close, or difficulty eating and speaking may need prompt evaluation.