While many of us wake up with a sore back or neck from sleeping in an odd position, did you know…

While many of us wake up with a sore back or neck from sleeping in an odd position, did you know it’s possible to awake to a throbbing jaw?

TMJ Disorder:Temporomandibular joint disorder is isolated to the nerve tissues and muscles in your jaw. Every day, our jaws do a lot of work! Designed to move up and down as well as side to side, it’s easy to see how misalignment and inflammation in the joint can occur. Sometimes, things like arthritis, stress, autoimmune disease and even an injury can cause TMJ.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Bruxism is commonly referred to as teeth grinding, which usually happens unconsciously and during sleep. Typically, this is tied to stress or stressful situations. Common symptoms include: Cracked, chipped or broken and worn teeth Receding enamel and gums Pain in the shoulders, jaw, neck and even ears

Teeth grinders and TMJ sufferers sometimes find a gentle jaw massage before bedtime loosens the muscles and joint to reduce clenching. Others find relief with a custom mouthguard, which our dentists can fit you at our Apple Dental care. Schedule your visit today if it’s time for a checkup !