Waking up with jaw pain or stiffness can be a frustrating way to start your day. If this happens regularly, you might wonder what’s causing it and how you can find relief. Morning jaw pain is often linked to nighttime habits and conditions such as teeth grinding, clenching, or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Understanding the possible causes can help you take the next steps toward a pain-free morning.
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
One of the most common reasons for morning jaw pain is bruxism, a condition where you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep. Many people are unaware they do this at night, but it can lead to jaw soreness, tooth sensitivity, headaches, and worn-down teeth over time. Stress and anxiety are often linked to nighttime grinding, which can increase muscle tension in your jaw as you sleep.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are the small but complex joints that connect your jaw to your skull, allowing you to speak and chew comfortably. When these joints become inflamed or strained, it can lead to TMD, causing jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, limited movement, and discomfort in the morning. Grinding and clenching can also contribute to the development or worsening of TMD.
Poor Sleep Position
Your sleeping posture can affect your jaw, neck, and facial muscles. Sleeping on your stomach or with your hand under your jaw can place pressure on your TMJs overnight, leading to soreness in the morning. If you notice your jaw hurts when you wake up, consider adjusting your sleep position to avoid additional pressure on your jaw.
Other Possible Causes
Morning jaw pain can also be linked to arthritis in the jaw joints, injuries, or even sinus issues, which can create pressure around the jaw area. If you experience additional symptoms such as ear pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing, it’s essential to consult with your dentist or doctor to determine the underlying cause.
How Your Dentist Can Help
If you frequently wake up with jaw pain, don’t ignore it—your dentist can help identify the cause and recommend treatment to protect your oral health. If teeth grinding or clenching is the culprit, your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your teeth and reduce jaw muscle tension while you sleep. For TMD, treatment options may include jaw exercises, lifestyle modifications, or therapy to improve joint function and relieve discomfort.
Seeking help early can prevent long-term damage to your teeth and jaw, ensuring you can start your mornings comfortably.
Taking steps to address the underlying cause of your morning jaw pain can lead to more restful sleep and a healthier smile.
About the Practice
The Nu Dental Barnegat team is committed to providing advanced, patient-centered care to help you maintain a healthy, comfortable smile. Our team is here to provide preventive and personalized treatments, including custom nightguards for teeth grinding and solutions for TMD, to help you find relief from jaw pain and protect your oral health.
Call us at (609) 879-0036 or request an appointment online.