Did you know your sleeping position can impact your jaw and teeth alignment? It’s not just about comfort – your posture during sleep can affect your bite, contribute to jaw pain, and even cause teeth to shift over time.

How Sleeping Position Impacts Your Jaw and Teeth

1. Sleeping on Your Stomach

This is the least ideal position for your jaw and teeth.

• Your face presses against the pillow, creating pressure on the jaw.
• Over time, this pressure can cause misalignment, discomfort, and even teeth shifting.
• It may also contribute to teeth grinding, which wears down enamel and can lead to sensitivity or fractures.

2. Sleeping on Your Side

While better than stomach sleeping, this position is not entirely risk-free.

• Uneven head positioning may strain one side of the jaw, leading to an unbalanced bite.
• This posture can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort over time.
• Many side sleepers unconsciously clench their teeth, increasing tension in the jaw.

3. Sleeping on Your Back (Best Option)

This is the most recommended sleeping position for optimal jaw and teeth alignment.

• The head and neck remain properly aligned, reducing pressure on the jaw.
• This posture prevents unnecessary shifting of teeth over time.
• It also minimizes the risk of nighttime teeth grinding or clenching.

Other Factors That Can Affect Your Jaw While Sleeping

Pillow Height and Support

A pillow that is too high or too low can strain your jaw and neck. A supportive pillow helps maintain alignment and prevents excessive pressure on the jaw.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

If you wake up with jaw pain or headaches, you may be grinding your teeth at night. A dentist can assess the issue and provide a custom night guard to prevent further damage.

Mouth Breathing

Breathing through your mouth instead of your nose while sleeping can lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. It may also contribute to jaw misalignment over time.

How to Improve Your Sleep for Better Jaw Health

• Sleep on your back to maintain a neutral jaw and teeth position.
• Use a supportive pillow that keeps your head and neck properly aligned.
• Consider a night guard if you experience teeth grinding or clenching.
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth, which can negatively impact oral health.

Concerned About Jaw Pain or Teeth Alignment? We Can Help

If you’re experiencing jaw discomfort, teeth shifting, or other alignment issues, our multi-award-winning dental clinic in Toronto is here to help. Our expert team will assess your bite and provide tailored solutions to protect your oral health.

Call us today at (416) 321-3268 or book an appointment online.