At Softouch Dental Care, TMJ treatment is approached with precision and compassion. Led by Dr. Michael Chung, who has extensive education in physiologic/neuromuscular dentistry and advanced dental studies, we help patients get answers.
In this blog, you’ll learn which sleeping positions may calm TMJ symptoms, which ones tend to aggravate them, and a few easy tweaks that can make bedtime more comfortable.
The Best Sleeping Position for TMJ Pain: On Your Back
If you’re looking for the most jaw-friendly option, back sleeping is often recommended because it encourages a neutral head and neck position and prevents the jaw from pressing into a pillow.
Back sleeping doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Try putting a pillow under your knees to relax your lower back, and use a supportive pillow that keeps your head level (not tilted forward).
Side Sleeping: Good for Some, Risky for Others
Side sleeping isn’t always “bad,” but it depends on how your jaw is supported. If your pillow is too high or too flat, your neck can bend awkwardly, which may increase muscle tension around the jaw.
If you’re a dedicated side sleeper, look for a pillow that keeps your spine straight from neck to shoulders. You can also hold a body pillow to prevent rolling onto your stomach.
The Worst Sleeping Position for Jaw Discomfort: On Your Stomach
Stomach sleeping is usually the toughest on TMJ pain because it forces your head to turn sharply to one side for hours. That twist can strain your neck and put pressure on your jaw joint simultaneously.
If you wake up with jaw soreness, tight cheeks, or headaches, stomach sleeping may be a major reason why.
Find Relief From TMJ Pain in Oakton, VA
Simple tweaks to your sleep routine can make a big difference in your jaw pain. If you’re still struggling, though, the team at Softouch Dental Care is here to help. Call 703-319-6990 to schedule an appointment at our Oakton office.
