Do you find yourself waking up with a locked jaw? Does it hurt to open your mouth in the morning or when you experience this during the day? If so, you may be experiencing a condition known as jaw locking during sleep. This can be extremely tough to deal with as it can indicate a more serious underlying issue. Here we’ll take you through the causes and solutions for this issue, discussing what you may be dealing with and some possible remedies.
What Is Jaw Locking During Sleep?
Jaw locking during sleep is a relatively common issue, but one that not many people are aware of. It is typically characterized by stiffness and pain in the jaw joint (also known as the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ) and is usually more common among those who suffer from TMJ disorder. This occurs when the jaw is not aligned properly, and can cause sore muscles around the jaw area, along with decreased mobility and pain.
The Causes of Jaw Locking During Sleep
While it isn’t always easy to pinpoint the exact cause of jaw locking, there are certainly a number of factors that can contribute to this issue. It’s thought that anything from grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep (referred to as bruxism) to a misaligned tooth or jaw could be to blame. Jaw locking can also be triggered by stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors, as well as arthritis, ear problems, and neck problems.
How to Manage Jaw Locking During Sleep
It is important to remember that jaw locking can likely be managed within the comfort of your own home. In order to help manage this issue, it is important to practice good oral hygiene and preventive measures, such as consciously relaxing your jaw muscles, cleaning your teeth regularly, and maintaining good posture. Getting regular massages or practicing meditation or yoga can also help to relieve stress or tension that may be contributing to the locking of the jaw.
What Should I Do If The Issue Persists?
If you are still experiencing jaw locking despite these measures, it is important to seek out the advice of a professional. Your dentist can conduct an examination to see if there are any underlying issues that could be contributing to the locking of your jaw and can offer potential solutions or treatment options. Depending on the diagnosis, options such as orthodontia, oral splints, and surgery can be considered.
Final Thoughts
Jaw locking can be a highly frustrating and painful experience, especially if it is occurring while you are sleeping. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help manage this issue and make it a bit more bearable. If you find that your symptoms are still persisting, it is important to seek professional help in order to receive a proper diagnosis and figure out the best treatment plan. With a bit of perseverance and the proper care, jaw locking can typically be kept to a minimum.
