Waking up with an aching jaw and a headache could be a sign of bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth during sleep, according to Tua Saúde. The health publisher reported on Thursday that these two morning symptoms are among the signals of nighttime bruxism.
Tua Saúde describes bruxism as a condition that occurs during sleep, which means many people may not realize they are doing it. Because the grinding happens overnight, the effects tend to show up after waking rather than during the day.
The outlet points to jaw fatigue and headache as two of the signs that can appear on waking. Tua Saúde's report frames these symptoms as possible indicators that a person has been clenching or grinding their teeth while asleep.
The report does not detail causes, diagnosis or treatment options, and no figures on how common the condition is were included in the material available.
Bruxism is often noticed first by a partner who hears the grinding, or by a dentist who sees wear on the teeth, though Tua Saúde's report focuses on the symptoms a person may feel themselves.
Anyone who regularly wakes with a tired jaw or headaches may want to raise the pattern with a dentist or doctor, since the published guidance links those symptoms to nighttime grinding.
What to watch next: whether Tua Saúde or other health outlets publish fuller guidance on diagnosing bruxism and the treatment options available for people who grind their teeth at night.
