Tag Archives: Jaw Going To The Side

Am I Grinding My Teeth?

For the past of couple nights when I’m a sleep I feel like my jaw keeps going to the side and I can’t move it…like it locks up on me and I don’t know if it’s actually doing it or if it’s just me dreaming. Technically it feels like it goes to the right side and no matter how bad I try to move it I can’t and then I wake up. So I don’t know if it’s a dream or if it’s really happening while I’m asleep. It’s not painful just real annoying. Happened about 5 times already. Any information on this?

Thanks Derek

Dear Derek,

It sounds like your grinding your teeth at night while you’re sleeping. It is common for this to happen especially if you have some stress or anxiety, an improper alignment of the teeth, or even some missing teeth. Grinding over time can chip and break your teeth, cause them to become worn down, and even cause bone loss around your teeth. If you notice that you are continually doing this in your sleep we recommend you let your dentist know about your grinding and have them do an exam to see if there are signs of grinding. If so, a custom made mouth appliance will probably be recommended for you to wear at night while you are sleeping to prevent you from causing damage to your teeth and help in the prevention of future grinding. Try to avoid caffeine and alcohol and relax your jaw muscles at night by putting a warm washcloth on your jaw by your earlobe.

Post courtesy of Dr. Malone, Lafayette Louisiana Cosmetic Dentist