Los Altos, CA
Why do I have jaw pain in the morning?
Waking up with jaw pain in the morning can be a result of clenching or grinding your teeth while you sleep. This can place excessive strain on the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to discomfort or soreness. A physical therapist can evaluate your jaw movement and provide exercises, stretches, and techniques to alleviate pain and restore proper function.
Why am I grinding my teeth at night?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can have various causes. Common factors include stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, sleep disorders, or even certain medications. As a physical therapy company, we can assess your overall musculoskeletal health, identify any underlying issues, and provide strategies to reduce bruxism-related symptoms.
Why do my teeth hurt?
Tooth pain can have various causes, such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, or dental trauma. However, in some cases, tooth pain can be related to jaw dysfunction or temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). A physical therapy company can work in collaboration with your dentist or orthodontist to address the underlying jaw issues contributing to tooth pain and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Do I need a night mouthguard?
A night mouthguard, also known as a nocturnal bite splint or occlusal guard, can be beneficial for individuals who grind their teeth at night or have jaw pain. It provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the impact of grinding and clenching forces. While a physical therapist cannot directly prescribe a mouthguard, we can work closely with your dentist or orthodontist to ensure that the use of a night mouthguard is incorporated into your overall treatment plan.
How can physical therapy fix my jaw pain?
Physical therapy can play a significant role in addressing jaw pain and dysfunction. A physical therapist with expertise in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can evaluate your jaw’s range of motion, identify any muscle imbalances or joint dysfunctions, and develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include manual therapy techniques, exercises to improve jaw mobility and stability, postural corrections, relaxation techniques, and education on self-management strategies. The goal is to reduce pain, improve jaw function, and enhance overall quality of life.
Remember, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist, dentist, or orthodontist, to receive a thorough evaluation and individualized treatment recommendations based on your specific condition.
For immediate TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain relief, here are a few self-care techniques you can try:
- Apply a warm compress: Place a warm compress or a moist heat pack on the affected area for about 10-15 minutes. The heat helps relax the muscles, reduces pain, and improves blood circulation.
- Practice gentle jaw exercises: Perform gentle jaw exercises to promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension. For example, slowly open and close your mouth, moving your jaw side to side and forward and backward. Be cautious not to force any movements that increase your pain.
- Massage the jaw muscles: Gently massage the muscles around your jaw joint using your fingertips. Apply gentle pressure in a circular motion to help release tension and alleviate pain.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Stress and tension can exacerbate TMJ pain. Engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching can help relax your jaw muscles.
- Avoid hard or chewy foods: Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing to reduce strain on your jaw joints. Avoid excessively crunchy, hard, or chewy foods that can worsen your symptoms.
- Maintain good posture: Maintain proper posture throughout the day, as poor posture can contribute to jaw misalignment and muscle tension. Sit up straight, keep your shoulders relaxed, and avoid craning your neck forward.
- Avoid excessive jaw movements: Try to avoid activities that strain your jaw, such as excessive gum chewing, clenching, or grinding. Be mindful of habits like nail-biting or pen chewing that can put additional stress on the jaw joint.
Remember, while these techniques may provide temporary relief, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or dentist specializing in TMJ disorders, to address the underlying causes of your TMJ pain and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Free Guide For Anyone Who Wants to End Jaw Pain!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kim Gladfelter, MPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Women's Health Physical Therapy Specialist at PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness
Kim Gladfelter is a physical therapist, Pilates instructor, educator, author, and co-founder of PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness. She is known as a keen, well-rounded expert of healing through movement and women’s health specialist in the Silicon Valley area.
Kim has helped men and women of all ages to stay active and feel their best. She also writes about managing pain in her health columns, blogs and the local Los Altos Town Crier newspaper as well as reaches out to the local community, support groups, schools, libraries, and sports centers to advise and educate on body awareness and therapeutic exercise.