Why Does Your Jaw Hurt When You Wake Up?
Posted on 2/3/2025 by Dental Specialists and Implant Clinic of Iowa |
 Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw, making it difficult to chew or even open your mouth wide? If so, you're not alone. Jaw pain is a common problem that can have a variety of causes.
One of the most common causes of jaw pain is teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. This occurs when you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth, usually during sleep. Over time, this can put a lot of stress on your jaw muscles and joints, leading to pain and discomfort.
Another common cause of jaw pain is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. The TMJ is the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. TMJ disorder can occur when this joint becomes inflamed or irritated, leading to pain, clicking, or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth.
Other potential causes of jaw pain include:
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Sinus infection: When your sinuses are inflamed, it can put pressure on your jaw muscles, causing pain. |
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Dental problems: An abscessed tooth, impacted wisdom tooth, or other dental problems can also cause jaw pain. |
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Trauma: A blow to the jaw can cause pain, swelling, and bruising. |
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Arthritis: Arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing pain and stiffness. |
What Can You Do About Jaw Pain?
If you're experiencing jaw pain, there are a few things you can do to find relief:
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Apply a warm compress: Apply a warm compress to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This can help to reduce inflammation and pain. |
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Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve pain and inflammation. |
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See a dentist: If your jaw pain is severe or doesn't improve with home treatment, see a dentist. They can examine your mouth and jaw, diagnose the cause of your pain, and recommend appropriate treatment. |
Preventing Jaw Pain
There are a few things you can do to help prevent jaw pain:
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Avoid chewing gum: Chewing gum can put extra stress on your jaw muscles. |
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Avoid clenching your jaw: If you find yourself clenching your jaw during the day, try to relax your jaw muscles. |
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Wear a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help to protect your teeth and jaw from damage. |
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Practice good oral care: Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help to prevent dental problems that can cause jaw pain. |
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Manage stress: Stress can contribute to teeth grinding and TMJ disorder. Finding ways to manage stress can help to reduce your risk of jaw pain. |
Conclusion
Jaw pain can be a real nuisance, but it's usually not a serious problem. With proper care and treatment, most people can find relief from jaw pain. If you're experiencing jaw pain, be sure to see a dentist to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. By taking steps to prevent jaw pain, you can help to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.
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