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10 Best Pillows for Jaw Pain To Relieve Tension 2024

By: Susie
Updated On: October 21, 2023

Waking up to a throbbing jaw is not exactly the kind of 'rise and shine' you wish for. When it's a persistent issue, that discomfort can cast a cloud over your entire day.

If jaw pain has been sabotaging your sleep and leaving you exhausted and irritable, we understand how you feel.

You might be surprised to know that you're not alone — millions are battling the same issue every night. Thankfully, there's a simple solution to help alleviate your discomfort - the best pillows for jaw pain.

This isn't just any ordinary pillow we're talking about here; it's a scientifically designed support system that can significantly improve your sleep quality and reduce or even eliminate morning grogginess.

Equipping yourself with the right pillow can work wonders on that pesky jaw pain, leading to more restful nights and happier mornings.

But with overwhelming options available in today's market, how do you choose? We've got your back—and your jaw—in this comprehensive guide.

What are the Causes and Symptoms of Jaw Pain?

What are the Causes and Symptoms of Jaw Pain?

Before we delve into figuring out the best pillow to alleviate your jaw pain, it's crucial to understand the root causes behind it.

Jaw pain may encompass discomfort in the jawbone, mandible, or temporomandibular joints responsible for moving your jaw. It might seem like a simple problem on the surface, but its causes can be quite multifaceted.

Causes of Jaw Pain

There are numerous reasons you could be experiencing jaw pain right now. It might be signaling a temporary inconvenience or even a symptom of serious underlying health conditions. Let’s unmask some common culprits behind jaw pain:

  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders – Your temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your skull to your jawbone. Disorders can cause pain in your jaw joint and muscles that control its movement.
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism) – This is when you habitually move your top and bottom teeth against each other when not eating.
  • Dental infections – Did you know an infection in a tooth can spread into the surrounding bone? The condition is termed dental abscess and causes intense throebbing in your jaw.
  • Toothache – Tooth decay, when ignored for too long, can lead to severe toothache, spreading pain into your jaws.
  • Sinus infections - Inflammation in the sinuses (located near the nose and eye sockets) could exert pressure on the upper jaws, leading to dual discomfort of a blocked nose and hurting jaws.
  • Trigeminal neuralgia - It's an intense piercing pain that affects the trigeminal nerve carrying sensation from face to brain; even mild gestures like brushing teeth can spark episodes of severe shooting pain.
  • Osteomyelitis – When infection seeps into the bloodstream, it reaches the bone, causing inflammation; jaw bone is among the frequent sufferers of this condition, leading to jaw pain.
  • Jaw injury or fracture - Accidents or impacts can injure your jaws, causing not just instant discomfort but also lingering painful conditions like TMJ disorders; even after the fracture heals, it can lead to tenderness and dull aches in the jaw.
  • Tumors or cysts in the jaw – Although rare, growths found in the jawbone can cause persisting pain as they expand and intrude on nearby muscle and tissue.
  • Periodontal disease – This gum infection destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. If left untreated, it could also trigger severe soreness in your jaws.
  • Impacted wisdom teeth - The last molars to emerge often get trapped due to limited space, leading to swollen gums around the tooth site, damage to adjacent teeth, and intense jaw pain.
  • Jaw clenching – Whether it's instinctual clenching due to stress or an unconscious act when sleeping, this constant exertion can fatigue your muscles, inducing radiating pain into your jaws.
  • Ear infections – Since our ears are pretty close anatomically to our jaws, an ear infection can often relay its painful signals into your jaws, tricking you into feeling a hurting jawline.

Understanding the cause behind your bloating jaw discomfort might prompt you to address it appropriately.

You wouldn't want a band-aid solution for an issue calling out for a major surgical intervention and vice versa because knowing is half battle won.

Symptoms of Jaw Pain

Now that you have a grasp on the litany of issues potentially causing your jaw pain let’s dive into identifying how jaw pain might manifest itself.

Recognizing these symptoms can be your first clue in acknowledging there's an issue and getting on the road to relief. Here are some common symptoms that might accompany your jaw pain:

  • Aching pain: This is typically a dull, constant throb that makes you constantly aware of its presence.
  • Tenderness: Your jaw might feel sore to the touch or when you move it.
  • Difficulty chewing: Eating could become a challenge due to the discomfort experienced during biting and chewing.
  • Clicking or popping sound when opening mouth: Some people might hear or feel a click or pop when they open their mouth. It's more cause for concern if it's accompanied by pain or limited jaw movement.
  • Facial pain: Facial discomfort around the jaws or cheeks could be symptomatic of several different underlying conditions, all leading to jaw pain.
  • Earache: Pain located in or around the ear might be associated with jaw disorders.
  • Headache: Tension headaches and migraines are often linked with TMJ disorders and other causes of persistent jaw pain.
  • Dizziness: In some cases, problems related to the jaw joint can cause vertigo or dizziness.
  • Tooth pain: A throbbing toothache stemming from dental problems can be advocated as jaw discomfort.
  • Locked jaw: You may find difficulty in opening and closing your mouth completely. Your jaws may get locked in place while talking, eating, or even without any apparent trigger.
  • Swelling on the side of the face: An infection, trauma, or other underlying health condition can cause swelling predominantly noticed on one side of your face, extending into your jaws, leading to painful symptoms.
  • Uncomfortable bite: You might feel as if your upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly, leading to discomfort.
  • Tinnitus: This condition, characterized by a ringing sound in the ears, could be associated with jaw joint disorders.
  • Change in the way teeth fit together: Any variations in your dental alignment can cause a cascade of discomfort in your jaws, making this a symptom you shouldn’t ignore.
  • Stiffness in the jaw muscles: Prolonged tension or overuse of jaw muscles can lead to stiffness, making it hurt even to perform simple actions such as talking or laughing.

Listening to your body is key. If these symptoms persist and become more than just an occasional nuisance, it means your body is urging you to take action.

Ignoring these signs might risk turning a minor problem into major suffering. Instead, seek medical advice promptly to nip the issue in the bud.

While medical treatment might constitute a significant aspect of addressing jaw pain issues, lifestyle changes, including choosing the right pillow, can reduce strain on your jaws, earning you blissful, pain-free nights.

Also Read: How To Sleep After Cervical Neck Surgery? [Do's and Don'ts]

10 Best Pillows for Jaw Pain

If your nights are marred by jaw discomfort, finding the right pillow may be high on your list. An adequate pillow can make a world of difference.

It can not only soothe your resting position but also enhance your overall sleep quality. We review the top ten pillows designed with jaw pain in mind, starting with the Misiki Cervical Memory Foam Pillow.

Misiki Cervical Memory Foam Pillow

Misiki Cervical Memory Foam Pillow

Are you looking for a solid solution to eliminate your jaw pain? Misiki's Cervical Memory Foam Pillow offers a functional blend of comfort and support.

Priced at $55, this pillow is designed with perfect care for the cervical vertebra. Its lightweight texture and ergonomic design ensure a relaxed sleep position, reducing the strain on your neck and shoulder.

Its 100% polyurethane fill material contours to perfectly cradle your head, ensuring zero pressure points that may aggravate jaw discomfort. You can say goodbye to those restless tossing and turning sessions!

The white pillow measures up at an accommodating L (24.5144.5 inches) and is friendly for both back and side sleepers. The skin-friendly pillowcase makes cleaning easy and extends the lifespan of your favorite nighttime companion.

Taking into consideration the fabric type, the pillow is composed of memory foam (100% polyurethane), coupled with a comfortable pillowcase made from 40% staple rayon + 60% polyester fiber.

Pros

  • Ergonomic Design
  • Skin Friendly Pillowcase
  • Perfect Care for Cervical Vertebra
CONS

  • Size May Not Fit All
  • Only Available in White

Saatva Latex Pillow

Saatva Latex Pillow

Priced at $165 for the standard/queen size and $185 for the king size, the Saatva Latex Pillow offers cradling comfort combined with excellent breathability. This pillow offers a luxurious feel that delivers not only quality but also sustainability.

Saatva has designed this pillow with a gusseted edge that ensures a balanced loft, leading to easier breathing and reduced pressure on your jaw.

The shredded 100% Talalay latex confirms an exceptional balance of softness and firmness while maintaining a naturally cooler sleeping experience.

The organic cotton outer cover provides an added layer of plush softness, feels gentle to your skin, and adds to its breathability quotient. The pillow is hypoallergenic, ensuring it's suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

This Saatva pillow enhances elasticity and responsiveness, helping accommodate different sleep positions - be it back, side, or stomach sleepers.

It's designed to offer optimal spinal alignment, which can be particularly beneficial if you're struggling with jaw pain.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Spatially Balanced Loft
  • Accommodates All Sleep Positions
CONS

  • Pricey
  • Limited Size Options

Sleep Is the Foundation Loft Pillow

Sleep Is the Foundation Loft Pillow

Are you tired of constantly waking up with jaw pain and feeling like you've tried everything to get a good night's sleep? Your search for relief may end here.

The Sleep Is the Foundation Loft Pillow is specially designed to give you the comfort you've been longing for.

This bed pillow comes in two size options - Queen ($67.20) and King ($75.60). It sports an elegant, original white color that perfectly suits any room decor.

The fill material is memory foam, which is extensively hailed for its pressure-relief abilities. This feature bestows your jaw with the soft support it requires to recuperate during your sleep.

With its top-of-the-line construction, this pillow conforms to your unique head and neck shape, promoting optimal spinal alignment and thereby reducing any undue pressure on your jaw.

Pros

  • Size Options Available
  • Optimal Spinal Alignment
  • Conforms to Unique Shape
CONS

  • Only Available in White
  • Firmness May Vary

Also Read: 6 Best Pillows for Vertigo To Reduce Your Dizziness In 2024

Original Groove Pillow

Original Groove Pillow

The Original Groove Pillow is another viable contender for dealing with your jaw pain. Priced just under $60, this pillow offers more than just a soft place to rest your head at night.

Designed with the features you need in the foremost of our minds, its unique structure is designed to effectively reduce the direct pressure applied to your jaw while providing excellent back and neck support. As a bonus, it offers a great expansion of airflow that keeps you cool and comfortable all night long.

Incorporating advanced memory foam technology, the Groove Pillow gives additional contour and support for those who primarily sleep on their sides. This pillow accommodates different heights and densities to provide maximum comfort tailored just for you.

Its premium-quality hypoallergenic materials ensure a clean sleeping environment without having to worry about potential allergens or irritants exacerbating your discomfort.

Pros

  • Excellent Jaw Support
  • Advanced Foam Technology
  • Hypoallergenic Materials
CONS

  • Pricey for Budget
  • Limited Size Options

Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow

Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow

The Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow is designed specifically for side sleepers dealing with jaw pain. Priced between $109.99 and $122.99, it features a distinctive U-shape that aims to reduce pressure on the jaw and keep your spine aligned while you sleep.

This pillow boasts a unique design intended to cradle not just your head but also your shoulder, providing an all-encompassing comfort experience.

The premium, high-quality material provides the perfect blend of support and softness, leading to a pain-free awakening.

A standout feature of the Eli & Elm is its adjustability. It comes with extra filling that you can add or remove according to your preference. This allows you to customize its height and firmness, ensuring that the pillow fits your needs to perfection.

Pros

  • U-shaped design
  • Premium quality material
  • Adjustability
CONS

  • High Price point
  • One color availability

Explore More: 10 Best Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers 2024 [Top Picks]

Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

If you're looking for a pillow that can help ease your jaw pain and give you a good night's sleep, look no further than The Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow. This $66 pillow holds the secret to delivering plush comfort with the right amount of support.

Crafted from eco-friendly Talalay latex, the pillow is known for its luxurious resilience. Its unique production process ensures a phenomenal balance between softness and firmness — key for alleviating discomfort linked with jaw pain.

The consistency of this pillow mimics the feeling of being feathered down while providing pressure relief like that of memory foam. The dimensions measure 16" x 24" x 5," which is perfect for people who move a lot during their sleep.

The cover is made from organic cotton (good news for all-tree lovers out there), ensuring high breathability and excellent airflow, which contrary to popular belief, are pivotal in ensuring quality rest.

What's more, the pillow is hypoallergenic, dust mite resistant, and helps minimize mildew and bacteria growth - perfect for those sensitive types.

Pros

  • Eco-Friendly Material
  • Hypoallergenic Properties
  • Breathable Organic Cotton Cover
CONS

  • Higher Cost
  • Limited Size Options

Read More: How To Arrange Pillows On A Bed 2024 [10 Bed Makeover Ideas]

Silk & Snow Pillow

Silk & Snow Pillow

Selling at $63.75, The Silk & Snow Pillow is a formidable contender when it comes to the best pillow picks for relieving jaw pain.

This pillow promises all the luxuries of a hotel-quality, down-filled bed partner, with a few added benefits that make it worth considering.

The pillow’s unique design cradles your head perfectly, supporting the ideal alignment of your neck and jaw. It holds its shape and provides consistent support thanks to its robust foam core wrapped in a plush outer shell.

A perk of this model is the adjustable loft, which allows you to customize the height according to your preference. This feature makes it perfect for anyone – whether you're a side sleeper or prefer sleeping on your back.

What sets this pillow apart from other competitors is its simple yet refined construction: designed with high-quality materials such as Tencel and polyester fibers known for their hypoallergenic properties.

Providing the right balance between soft and firm, this pillow proves an ally in fighting extreme jaw pain or discomfort throughout the night.

Pros

  • Adjustable Loft
  • Hypoallergenic Properties
  • Tailored Neck Alignment
CONS

  • Pricier than Some Competitors
  • Might Need Regular Fluffing

Noble Head Pillow

Noble Head Pillow

Priced at $349, the Noble Head Pillow stands out as a luxurious splurge on your journey to eliminate jaw pain.

It's designed with attention to every detail, ensuring that your need for comfort and support isn’t just met, they are exceeded.

Crafted with the guarantee of quality, this professional-grade pillow aims to foster proper alignment while sleeping. Whether you're a side sleeper, back sleeper, or someone who varies positions throughout the night, this pillow adjusts to you.

What's more? The Noble Head Pillow comes with customizable fills, an added benefit that allows you to adjust its firmness based on your individual preference. This unique feature screams flexibility!

While no product is perfect, certain aspects of this pillow can be considered as potential downsides. It comes with a steep price tag, which may not fit everyone's budget.

Given its professional-grade design and materials, maintenance might require extra effort compared to other pillows on the market.

Pros

  • Adjustable firmness
  • Promotes proper alignment
  • Versatile for various sleepers
CONS

  • Requires regular maintenance
  • Not easily portable

Layla Kapok Pillow

Layla Kapok Pillow

Are you tired of waking up with a sore jaw and sleep-deprived eyes? Say hello to the Layla Kapok Pillow. Priced at $109, this pillow is a unique blend of soft and supportive, made to alleviate the harshest of jaw pains.

Constructed from a mix of Kapok fiber (grown in tropical rainforests) and reactive memory foam, it offers a cloud-like feel without sacrificing support. Issues like teeth grinding and jaw clenching can lead to severe sleep disruptions.

With the Layla Kapok Pillow that incorporates a soft yet responsive design, you can look forward to improved sleep quality.

Understanding the importance of hypoallergenic materials in pillows, especially when dealing with pain issues, Layla has ensured this product is copper-infused.

This not only helps combat allergies but also ensures heat regulation for a cool and comfortable night's rest.

Cleaning is easy: its cover is removable and washable too. The queen-size pillow measures 18x28 inches, while the king-size size measures 18x32 inches.

Also Read: Can You Sleep In A Waist Trainer? 2023 [Is It Safe or Not?]

Pros

  • Soft Yet Supportive
  • Hypoallergenic Copper-infused Fill
  • Removable Washable Cover
CONS

  • Not Adjustable
  • Limited Size Options

Treatment for Jaw Pain

When it comes to handling jaw pain, the approach is typically multi-faceted. From over-the-counter options to prescription medications, decisive actions depend on the severity of your pain, its root cause, and your body's unique response.

Medications

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers: These are often the first line of defense against mild to moderate jaw pain. You can consider analgesics like Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) such as Ibuprofen.
  • Prescription medications: For severe pain or when OTC drugs fail to provide relief, your doctor may prescribe more potent painkillers.
  • Muscle relaxants: These help ease muscle tension and spasms that often contribute to jaw discomfort.
  • Anti-inflammatories: Inflammatory conditions contributing to jaw discomfort may be controlled with prescription anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Antibiotics (for infections): If your jaw pain is due to an infection, antibiotics become a critical part of the treatment plan.

Therapies

  • Physical therapy: Specific exercises can aid in stretching or strengthening jaw muscles, consequently improving function and reducing pain.
  • Cold compresses/Heat packs: The application of cold or heat can provide immediate relief from acute discomfort.
  • Stress reduction techniques: Stress often amplifies symptoms of chronic conditions like TMJ disorders; thus, stress management techniques like yoga and deep breathing can be beneficial in managing jaw pain.

Dental Interventions

  • Dental splints or mouth guards: Often used for conditions like bruxism where teeth grinding is present, these devices protect teeth from damage and help reduce pressure on the jaw joint.
  • Occlusal adjustments: Dental procedures to realign your bite, which can alleviate jaw strain and pain.
  • Jaw exercises: Specific movements can aid in stretching or strengthening jaw muscles, improving function, and reducing pain.

Advanced Treatment Options

When conservative treatment options fail, further steps may be necessary.

  • Botox injections: These help relax the muscles that control the jaw and relieve associated discomfort.
  • Corticosteroid injections: Delivered directly into the joint for severe inflammation or arthritis.
  • Surgery (in severe cases): In cases of a severe misalignment or breakdown of the joint, surgical intervention may be necessary.
  • Acupuncture/Massage therapy/Trigger point injections: These therapies can offer significant relief by targeting precise points responsible for your pain.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (for TMJ-related pain): This method helps understand and change behaviors leading to increased pain and stress.
  • Arthrocentesis, Arthroscopy, and Joint replacement (in extreme cases): These are other surgical interventions aimed at directly addressing joint issues causing your distress.

Consider discussing these treatment options with your healthcare provider to find what works best for you.

The journey to recovery doesn’t always require a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s all about finding what suits your unique needs.

Also Read: 10 Best Mattress Toppers for Arthritis [How To Choose In 2024]

FAQs about the best pillows for jaw pain

How do pillows help in reducing jaw pain?

The right pillow supports the neck and head, alleviates undue pressure on the jaw, and helps maintain proper alignment while sleeping.

What type of pillow is best for managing jaw discomfort?

Memory foam or cervical pillows, which conform to the shape of your head and neck, can be particularly beneficial.

Should I switch my pillow if experiencing persistent jaw pain?

Yes! An uncomfortable or unsupportive pillow can worsen jaw problems—switching to a specialized pillow can help alleviate discomfort.

Does a firmer pillow work better for jaw pain than a softer one?

It depends on your sleep position and personal preference. A well-aligned spine is key, which may require a more supportive (firmer) or cushioned (softer) option.

What other features should I look for when buying a pillow for jaw pain?

Hypoallergenic materials and removable, washable covers can also be key considerations given their role in ensuring overall comfort.

Conclusion

When you're grappling with jaw pain, every night can feel like a battle. The right pillow can be your vanguard, providing much-needed relief and paving the way to restful nights and pain-free days.

Remember that what may work for one person could vary greatly for another. Ensure you consider not just your jaw discomfort but also your sleep habits and preferences when choosing your ideal pillow. Take that first step today toward peaceful nights and more vibrant mornings.

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