The main reasons teeth hurt when waking up include these common causes:
- Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching during sleep) is the most frequent cause. This puts excessive pressure on teeth and jaw muscles, leading to soreness and tooth pain in the morning. It can also cause headaches and jaw pain.
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) affects the jaw joint and muscles, causing pain that can radiate to the teeth, especially upon waking.
- Tooth decay, cavities, or gum disease can cause persistent tooth sensitivity or pain, which may feel worse in the morning.
- Sinus pressure, particularly if congested or infected, can cause referred pain to the upper teeth as sinuses are close to the tooth roots.
- Poor sleep posture or dry mouth (breathing through the mouth) can strain jaw muscles or reduce saliva that protects teeth, increasing sensitivity or discomfort.
- Tooth abscess or infections cause severe pain when biting or at rest, sometimes noticeable upon waking.
If morning tooth pain is frequent or severe, it is advisable to consult a dentist to diagnose the exact cause and get proper treatment. Bruxism often requires a night guard, while infections or decay need dental intervention. Addressing sinus issues or sleep habits might also alleviate pain. In summary, waking up with tooth pain is commonly linked to teeth grinding, jaw disorders, dental issues, sinus problems, or poor oral conditions during sleep.
