How Posture Influences How Much Jaw Pain You Feel

Posted on 10/1/2024 by San Tan Oral Surgery

Patient holding jaw before appointment at San Tan Oral Surgery in Gilbert, AZ

Jaw pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. While there are many potential causes, one that is often overlooked is posture. Poor posture can put extra strain on the muscles and joints of the jaw, leading to pain and discomfort.

The Connection Between Posture and Jaw Pain

Our bodies are interconnected, and the way we hold ourselves can have a significant impact on our oral health. When we slouch or hunch our shoulders, it can cause our head and neck to tilt forward. This puts extra stress on the muscles that control jaw movement, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and even clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint.

Additionally, poor posture can contribute to teeth grinding and clenching, which are known as bruxism. This can further strain the jaw muscles and lead to headaches, earaches, and even tooth damage.

What You Can Do to Improve Your Posture and Reduce Jaw Pain

The good news is that there are things you can do to improve your posture and reduce jaw pain. Here are a few tips:

•	Be mindful of your posture: Pay attention to how you are sitting and standing throughout the day. Make sure your back is straight, your shoulders are relaxed, and your head is held high.
•	Take breaks: If you are sitting for long periods, take breaks every 30 minutes or so to stand up and move around. This will help to prevent your muscles from becoming tight.
•	Stretch: Stretching your neck and shoulder muscles can help to improve your posture and reduce tension.
•	Strengthen your core: A strong core can help to support your spine and improve your posture.
•	See a dentist or physical therapist: If you are experiencing jaw pain, see a dentist or physical therapist. They can assess your posture and provide you with exercises and other treatments to help reduce pain and improve your overall oral health.

Restorative Dentistry Options for Jaw Pain

In some cases, restorative dentistry options may be necessary to address jaw pain. These options may include:

•	Mouthguards: Mouthguards can help to protect your teeth from damage caused by bruxism.
•	Bite adjustments: If your bite is misaligned, it can put extra strain on your jaw muscles. Bite adjustments can help to correct this problem.
•	Jaw joint surgery: In rare cases, jaw joint surgery may be necessary to correct a structural problem with the jaw joint.

Conclusion

Jaw pain can be a debilitating problem, but it is often preventable and treatable. By improving your posture and taking other steps to care for your oral health, you can reduce your risk of developing jaw pain. If you are experiencing jaw pain, see a dentist or physical therapist to discuss your treatment options.

About
Dr. Cynthia Colson

Dr. Colson grew up in the Metro area, attending Camelback High School and ASU. She graduated from the University of Kentucky Dental School and completed her residency at Long Island Jewish Hospital in Long Island, New York. She also attended an anesthesia fellowship program at the University of Illinois at Chicago and has traveled with Healing The Children, a non-profit organization, to Bucarumanga Columbia treating patients with cleft lip and palate deformities.
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What our patients are saying about us

"Dr. Colson is amazing! She explained everything thoroughly without sounding condescending and gently but directly guides you through the whole procedure. She is excellent and super experienced. I got my wisdom teeth pulled (3 partially impacted and one simply extracted) and aside from asking too many questions under laughing gas before the general anesthesia knocked me out, I got no complications and have had essentially no pain at all." – Ana D.

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Location

3303 S. Lindsay Rd.
Suite 112
Gilbert, AZ 85297

Contact

Office: (480) 604-2592

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San Tan Oral Surgery, 3303 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 112, Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100 ~ (480) 604-2592 ~ santanoralsurgery.com ~ 12/4/2025 ~ Tags: Dental Implants Gilbert AZ ~