You’re enjoying a meal when—pop—your jaw clicks as you chew. Maybe it happens every now and then, or maybe it’s become a regular occurrence. Either way, it’s annoying and sometimes even painful. If your jaw pops frequently, it could be a sign of bruxism, or teeth grinding, which often happens at night.
What Causes Jaw Popping?
Jaw popping is often linked to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which helps your jaw open and close. If something is off with this joint, you may experience clicking, discomfort, or even locking. The biggest culprit? Nighttime teeth grinding and clenching. This repeated pressure can strain the TMJ, leading to tightness, popping, and soreness. Ignoring it can lead to jaw pain, worn-down teeth, and headaches. The good news? A custom nightguard could help protect your teeth and ease discomfort.
Other possible causes include:
- Stress and tension: Many people grind their teeth without realizing it, especially when stressed.
- Bite misalignment: If your teeth don’t fit together properly, it can put extra strain on your jaw.
- Arthritis or joint issues: TMJ disorders can sometimes be linked to arthritis or joint inflammation.
If your jaw has been giving you trouble, it’s worth looking into solutions before minor discomfort turns into a bigger issue!
How a Nightguard Can Help
If you wake up with a sore jaw or headaches, your teeth might be working overtime while you sleep. A custom nightguard acts like a shock absorber, cushioning your teeth and reducing strain on your jaw. Over time, it can help minimize jaw popping, morning soreness, and those frustrating tension headaches. Here’s how it helps:
- Stops nighttime grinding and clenching before they wreak havoc on your jaw.
- Gives your TMJ a break, so it can rest and recover overnight.
- Prevents wear, fractures, and sensitivity, keeping your teeth in top shape.
- Eases jaw tension and headaches, so you wake up feeling refreshed instead of sore.
Wearing a nightguard might not be the most glamorous bedtime routine, but your jaw (and teeth) will thank you in the morning!
Nightguards for Bruxism at Prairie Dental Group in Eden Prairie, MN
Occasional jaw popping might not be a big deal, but if it happens frequently or comes with pain, don’t ignore it. At Prairie Dental Group in Eden Prairie, our team can assess your jaw health and determine if a nightguard is the right solution for you. If your jaw is popping, clicking, or feeling sore, schedule an appointment today—we can help you find relief!
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