Do you treat non-painful popping?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Sometimes
• D. Only with accompanying pain

Answer: (B)

Treatment decisions in TMD hinge on pain and functional impairment rather than the presence of joint sounds alone. Non-painful popping often reflects a benign variation in the disc-condyle relationship and doesn’t interfere with function, so no active treatment is indicated. The best approach is reassurance and regular monitoring, along with guidance on avoiding parafunctional stresses and maintaining jaw mobility. If pain, reduced opening, or jaw locking develops, then a targeted evaluation and appropriate therapy should be started.