Sleep disorders cause all sorts of problems, and are more common than most people realize. Dr. Jennifer J. Cornell, DDS, at Dental Sleep and TMJ Solutions of Clarksville has answers to some of the questions that come up about the conditions preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep.

Question: Every morning I wake up with a sore jaw. What’s going on?

Dr. Cornell: There are several potential reasons why you may be waking up with a sore jaw. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dentist with extra training in TMJ or Dental Sleep Medicine, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate advice. That being said, here are a few common possibilities:

1. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep can lead to jaw pain. This may be related to stress, misaligned teeth, or other factors. A dentist may be able to identify signs of bruxism and recommend solutions such as a mouthguard, if appropriate.

2. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction: The TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. You have a right and left temporomandibular joint. Issues with the TMJ can result in jaw pain. The muscles that support this joint can also be overworked due to Bruxism and become painful. TMJ dysfunction of either the joint capsule itself or the supporting muscles and tendons, may be caused by factors like acute sports injury, a fall, arthritis, stress, or habits.

3. Poor Sleep posture: Sleeping in a position that puts strain on your jaw or neck muscles can contribute to jaw pain. Consider trying different sleeping positions or using supportive pillows.

4. Dental Issues: Cavities, gum disease, or other dental problems may cause discomfort that manifests as jaw pain. Regular dental check-ups can help identify and address these issues.

5. Sleep Apnea: This is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts. It can be associated with clenching or grinding the teeth, leading to jaw pain.

6. Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can contribute to teeth grinding and jaw clenching, leading to soreness.

7. Chewing Gum or Tough Foods: Excessive chewing, especially before bedtime, can bulk up and even strain the muscles that support the jaw.

8. Other: The ear canal is closely associated to the jaw joint as well as structures like the parotid gland and other nerves and blood vessels. Good imaging ordered by a healthcare provider can rule out other causes of jaw pain.

If you are experiencing persistent jaw pain, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your specific symptoms, medical history, and conduct any necessary tests to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Jennifer J. Cornell, DDS, is a diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. For more, visit the Dental Sleep and TMJ Solutions of Clarksville website or call 931-645-8000.