Temporomandibular joint syndrome, commonly referred to as TMJ, is a pain in the jaw joint that can be caused by joint abnormalities, arthritis or other medical conditions. Common treatments include dietary changes, stress reduction, muscle stretching, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. Changing sleep positions can also reduce symptoms in some cases.
Strain on the head, neck, face or jaw can worsen TMJ symptoms. Waking up with increased levels of jaw pain can be a sign that sleep position is making symptoms worse. How a person positions the body during sleep can affect multiple factors that contribute to jaw pain:
Sleeping on the stomach or side can push the jaw back towards the skull or to the side, depending on the head position of the sleeper. This increased pressure on the jaw can intensify symptoms. Additionally, turning the head to the side while sleeping may create tension that makes TMJ worse.
Sleeping on the back is considered an ideal position for reducing pain because it avoids pressure on the jaw, keeps the head and neck in better alignment, provides increased support for the head, neck and shoulders and makes it less likely that teeth clenching or grinding will occur. However, it is important to avoid creating tension in the neck by elevating the head too much. Back sleepers should avoid using pillows that are too firm or too thick and refrain from propping their heads up with their hands because this can create neck strain.
Pressure on the jaw can be further reduced by training the tongue to rest on top of the teeth. Relaxing the tongue on top of the teeth helps to keep the jaw slightly open, which can reduce the chance that teeth clenching or grinding will occur.
Sleeping flat on the back can make some health conditions such as sleep apnea and acid reflux worse. People who have health issues that may be impacted by their sleep habits should consult with a doctor to determine whether changing sleep position is an appropriate TMJ treatment option.
According to sleep surveys, only about 10-15% of people sleep on their backs, and many individuals have difficulty adjusting to back sleeping. This transition can be made easier by placing a small pillow under the arch of the spine and sleeping on an adjustable mattress or a mattress that conforms to the body. A supportive orthopedic pillow may also help hold up the neck. Experimenting with different arm and leg positions may also increase comfort. However, placing the arms over the head should be avoided.
Patients with persistent jaw pain should consult a medical professional for an evaluation of the problem and determination of appropriate treatment options. Changing sleep positions can be helpful for many people, but they may not work for everyone.
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