Why Does My Jaw Hurt When I Wake Up?

You might not think about your jaw much, but its tough to ignore when it starts aching. While your jaw isn’t technically your teeth, the two are closely connected, and many jaw pain issues stem from oral health problems. If you’re waking up with soreness, stiffness, or even headaches, your dental health might be the culprit. At Brite Smiles Dental Care, we help patients in Apple Valley, MN, uncover the root cause of jaw discomfort and find lasting relief.

Let’s explore some of the most common reasons why your jaw might hurt in the morning and what you can do about it.

Smile with teeth attrition

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Many people clench or grind their teeth at night without realizing it. Over time, this habit (called bruxism) puts excessive strain on your jaw muscles and can lead to morning pain. Common signs include:

  • Worn-down or sensitive teeth

  • Headaches or facial soreness upon waking

  • Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw

A custom nightguard from your Apple Valley MN dentist can provide protection and reduce strain on your jaw while you sleep.

Woman ice-packing her jaw

TMJ Disorders

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, and when it’s not functioning properly, it can cause discomfort and stiffness. TMJ disorders can result from stress, arthritis, or misalignment and may cause:

  • Jaw pain or tightness in the morning

  • Difficulty opening or closing your mouth

  • A popping or clicking sensation in your jaw

TMJ treatments range from physical therapy exercises to advanced dental solutions like our TruDenta TMJ program.

Woman sleeping on her stomach

Poor Sleep Posture

Your sleeping position plays a bigger role in your oral health than you might think. Sleeping on your stomach or with your jaw pressed into a pillow can lead to tension and misalignment. Try these adjustments:

  • Sleep on your back with proper neck support

  • Use a pillow that keeps your head aligned with your spine

  • Avoid resting your hand under your jaw while sleeping

Smile with crooked teeth

Bite Alignment Issues

If your bite is off, your jaw muscles have to work overtime to compensate, leading to pain and discomfort. Malocclusion (misalignment) can be caused by:

  • Crooked or overcrowded teeth

  • Missing teeth that alter how your bite fits together

  • Old dental work that no longer aligns properly

Orthodontic solutions like Invisalign can help restore balance to your bite, relieving strain on your jaw over time.

Let’s Get Your Jaw Back on Track!

You don’t have to live with morning jaw pain. Whether it’s bruxism, TMJ, or bite misalignment, Brite Smiles Dental Care is here to help. Schedule a consultation with our team so you can start your days pain-free!

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Tags: dental health dental care oral hygiene apple valley mn dentist