Morning Jaw Stiffness

Grinding and clenching may happen during sleep or while awake. Stress and sleep problems can affect bruxism, while some people clench subconsciously during the day.

Give the jaw a period of rest and avoid habits that keep the muscles active. Improving sleep hygiene and reducing stress are behavioural changes used to improve TMD and bruxism symptoms.

The history focuses on where pain occurs, when it appears, what changes it, and whether headaches or other pain conditions are present. Examination looks for jaw tenderness, sounds, and difficulty moving.

Conservative care is used first for TMD symptoms. Depending on the pattern, care can include education, jaw rest, a soft diet, warmth, stretching, sleep improvement, stress management, and work on clenching habits.

Notice and interrupt daytime clenching, improve sleep habits, and reduce stress. Bruxism can wear down or break teeth, increasing sensitivity and damaging fillings.

Alongside a painful jaw, bruxism may be associated with worn or broken teeth, sensitivity, headaches, earache, and disturbed sleep.

Arrange dental assessment when grinding comes with tooth damage, sensitive teeth, jaw pain, face or ear pain, or when a sleeping partner reports grinding. Concern about a child grinding is also a reason to seek advice.