Do you notice jaw pain or stiffness as soon as you wake up? It’s easy to brush off at first, but when it becomes part of your daily routine, it can start to affect how you feel overall. If you’ve been left wondering what’s causing it, you’re not alone. Here are a few of the most common reasons behind this discomfort and how your dentist can give you the relief you need.
So, Why Does My Jaw Hurt When I Wake Up?
There are a handful of culprits that might be behind a sore jaw when you wake up. These are a few to blame:
- Bruxism: This is a habit of grinding and clenching your teeth without realizing it, often while you sleep. Most people have no idea they are doing it until symptoms show up. Over time, the repeated pressure can wear on your facial muscles, leading to soreness, fatigue, enamel wear, and even headaches.
- TMJ Disorder: Your temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are what allow your jaw to open and close smoothly. When they become irritated or inflamed, you might notice discomfort, clicking or popping sounds, or trouble moving your jaw the way it normally would.
- Stress: If life has felt a little heavier, then being overwhelmed can play a role. Tension can settle into your body overnight and thus cause tightness or aches in your face.
What Can My Dentist Do About My Pain?
Since morning jaw pain can stem from a few different sources, it helps to know that your dentist has options to address it. If teeth grinding or clenching turns out to be the cause, a nightguard is often the simplest solution. This small device cushions your smile and keeps your dental arches from making harmful contact while you’re asleep.
If TMJ disorder is behind your discomfort, your provider might recommend an occlusal splint. This specialized appliance gently shifts your jaw into a more natural position. The muscles will be able to relax and heal themselves. Occlusal adjustments can also help with teeth that don’t come together properly by reshaping them. This can fix certain bite problems.
Whatever the cause turns out to be, your dentist is ready to help you get answers. They will work to pinpoint the source of your jaw stiffness and guide you through the next steps. That way, you regain your painless mornings.
About the Author
Dr. Jason Kaopua earned his dental degree from the Oregon Health & Sciences University. He has over 20 years of experience that he uses to give the Everett community the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Kaopua is here to treat TMJ disorder with reliable treatment options like specialized oral appliances. If you want to get to the bottom of your morning jaw pain, schedule an appointment or call his office at 425-267-3333.