Are you experiencing TMJ pain after sleeping? Here’s Why

Getting a good night’s sleep is absolutely essential for living a healthy and productive life. Sleep is vital for giving your body rest and time to take care of itself. Unfortunately, millions of Americans suffer from a wide variety of conditions that affect their sleep, including sleep apnea and temporomandibular joint disorders.

Fortunately, experts like Dr. Phillips, a board certified sleep dentist and who has focused the scope of her practice to the treatment of sleep breathing disorders (OSA and snoring) and TMD for the last 11 years, can help you determine why you’re struggling to sleep and can prescribe TMD treatment plans.

If you’re waking up with a sore jaw, you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. These disorders are serious and can affect your quality of life. You may have trouble speaking, eating, and sleeping, for example. Identifying TMD symptoms is the first step in a successful diagnosis.

The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to your face. The joint consists of a complex system of muscles and cartilage that allows your jaw to open and close. While the temporomandibular joint is resilient, problems can emerge. TMJ disorders occur when the joint complex is damaged or is not functioning properly.

If you’re having trouble breathing during sleep, it might be sleep apnea. You may also wake up feeling tired. Sleep apnea is characterized by disrupted breathing, which is caused by an obstructed airway. In some instances, TMJ disorders and sleep apnea can be related as well.

If you’re waking up with jaw pain, one of your first steps should be to adjust your sleeping position. It’s possible that your sleeping position is causing or at least aggravating your TMJ disorder. When it comes to TMJ disorders, sleeping on your back is the best position.

• Weight won’t be placed on your jaw or face.
• Your spine and neck may be straightened out.
• Offers proper support to the neck and head.
• Less likely to clench your jaw.

Unfortunately, sleeping on your back may aggravate other conditions, such as sleep apnea. If you’re suffering from both sleep apnea and a TMJ disorder, you should consult an expert like Dr. Phillips who will be able to prescribe a treatment plan that will address both conditions.

Sleeping on your stomach could aggravate your TMJ disorder. When you sleep on your stomach, part of your face and jaw will be pressed into your pillow or bed. This will, in turn, exert force on your jaw and the temporomandibular joint.

If your jaw is misaligned, the cartilage is damaged, or something else is wrong, the force being exerted on it could aggravate the condition.

When you sleep on your side, your jaw may also be subjected to force. Sleeping on your side may help alleviate sleep apnea but could cause other problems.

Besides changing your sleeping position, there are other measures you can take to reduce pain caused by a TMJ disorder. Of course, there’s no sure-fire way to alleviate pain and you don’t want to become dependent on sleep or pain relief drugs.

Try a different pillow- Your pillow could be aggravating your TMJ condition. If it’s worn out, too thick, or too hard, it could be aggravating your condition. Some pillows have been designed specifically to address TMJ disorders.

Arm Position- If your jaw is pressed against you or a loved one’s arm while you’re sleeping, it could be putting pressure on your jaw and joints. By changing your position, you may provide relief.

Mattress- Your mattress may be causing you to toss or turn, or may not be providing enough support. This could contribute to jaw pain. A new mattress may help.

Relaxation techniques- When you’re stressed or anxious, you may clench your teeth. This can cause and worsen TMJ disorders. Relaxation techniques can be used to relax your jaw.

TMJ disorders should not be overlooked and you shouldn’t try to tough it through the pain. If jaw pain continues to linger or is getting worse, you should consult with a TMJ specialist immediately.

If left untreated, your TMJ disorder could worsen, causing more pain and resulting in more nights of poor sleep. Fortunately, TMJ specialists like Dr. Phillipscan prescribe an effective treatment plan. So schedule a consultation today and get your sleep schedule back on track!