If you wake up with an aching jaw, don’t ignore it. Although jaw ache can be caused by teeth clenching, cavities, abscesses, and gum disease, one of the most common causes is teeth grinding – known medically as bruxism.
Treatments for teeth grinding include:
– Wearing a specially fitted mouthguard while you sleep
– Acupuncture
– Botox
– Therapy or relief for stress if that is the cause
“Ongoing grinding can cause sensitivity and weakening of the tooth structure, as well as cracks and breakages. Further consequences can come in the form of muscular pain in the neck and shoulders and even headaches.”
Talk to your dentist right away about an aching jaw to get treatment; ignoring it can lead to complications.
Read more here: https://www.glamour.co.za/wellness/fitness-exercise/this-is-why-you-should-never-ignore-jaw-ache-17536395
I’m Matthew Houlton, principal dentist and practice owner of Manor House Dental Practice.
Qualified from Sheffield dental hospital in 1993.
Post graduate training with Paul Tipton (Specialist Prosthodontist) from 2005-2007.
Diploma for Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) 2007.
Special interest in Orthodontics.
Yorkshire Deanary Fixed Appliance Training Scheme 2002-2004.
I have worked at York Hospital’s orthodontic department one session a week since 2009.
Member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies (the study of temporomandibular disorder).
I have two children, who keep me busy when I am not at the practice. I take a keen interest in and teach Aikido, a martial art, to keep a healthy mind and body.