Do You Have TMJ? You Might Have Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Vineland, NJ

There are many scientific studies about the correlation between sleep apnea and TMJ pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control, sleep apnea is currently a national epidemic, and up to 85 percent of all cases are yet undiagnosed.

The jawbone connects with the temporal bone at the temporomandibular joint, otherwise known as TMJ. Typically, this joint enables opening and closing of the mouth for speech, eating and rest. If something goes wrong, a TMJ disorder can have adverse effects on your life and overall well-being. In this article, you will learn about how your TMJ disorder might be related to your sleeping issues.

TMJ Disorders

According to the National Institutes of Health, around 10 million people are dealing with TMJ disorder, although most cases are mild. The symptoms usually include pain, sore facial muscles and clicking or popping sounds coming from their jaw. Diagnosing the cause of the issue is essential since the stress and jaw conditions can quickly become an uncomfortable, recurrent cycle.

Teeth grinding or clenching can worsen TMJ pain. The pain can extend to the face, neck, shoulders and head. Many patients of TMJ disorder often complain of chronic migraines and headaches.

The TMJ and sleep apnea relationship

Different studies have shown that 43 percent of TMJ patients have sleeping issues. In obstructive sleep apnea, when the air passages collapse, the brain automatically triggers the lower jaw to shift forward and open the airway. The constant shifting of the TMJ can induce stress on the jaw joint, and that is the main correlation between TMJ and sleep apnea.

TMJ disorder has been associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, which worsens sleep apnea and affects overall well-being. Also, the physical position or misalignment of the jaw can prevent the air passages from remaining open during sleep. Sleep apnea is connected to the underdevelopment of the jaws, and almost all treatments available for sleep apnea are aimed towards handling such issues.

Solving the problem

In some cases, TMJ disorder disappears on its own, but you do not have to endure the pain and hardship before seeking treatment. Good sleep is essential for optimal functions of the body and overall health.

The treatments available for TMJ disorder include mouthguards and oral splints, corticosteroids for pain relief, surgery in severe cases, medications (anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers) and Botox injections to relax muscles.

Sleep apnea does not heal on its own and can cause severe health complications if untreated. Sleep apnea predisposes you to the risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes and other chronic diseases — it can even be deadly. Treatments for sleep apnea include dental sleep appliances, CPAP machines and surgery for severe cases. The aim is to correct the impaired foundation and create a more efficient air passage system.

In conclusion

If you are feeling any form of pain in your jaw or dealing with sleeping issues such as sleep apnea, you should contact your dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://marcuccidental.com or call Marcucci Dental at (856) 776-7211 for an appointment in our Vineland office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Sleep Apnea in Vineland, NJ.

Related Posts

How Teeth Whitening Targets Discoloration And Stain

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment. This procedure can effectively brighten your smile by addressing discoloration and stains. By understanding how teeth whitening targets stains, you can see how the process can restore your teeth to a cleaner and more youthful appearance.Tooth discoloration can occur for several reasons, and identifying the source is…

The Pros And Cons Of Full Mouth Reconstruction

Full mouth reconstruction refers to the comprehensive process of restoring or replacing all the teeth in the upper and lower jaws. Patients with extensive dental damage from decay, trauma, wear, or congenital conditions may benefit from this transformative treatment. While a full mouth reconstruction can significantly improve oral health, function, and aesthetics, understanding its advantages…

5 Reasons To Visit An Emergency Dentist For Tooth Extraction

Seeing an emergency dentist for tooth extraction is sometimes necessary when pain, damage, or infection develops suddenly. Tooth extractions are typically planned in advance, but urgent situations may require immediate dental care to relieve symptoms and prevent further complications. Knowing when to seek help from an emergency dentist ensures that patients receive prompt and effective…

Smile Makeover Treatment: All-on-4®

A smile makeover is a great way to improve the appearance and function of the entire mouth. One of the most popular smile makeover treatment options is a procedure called All-on-4®. Through an All-on-4® procedure, patients can expect to have a transformed smile, as well as an improved bite, thus making eating, speaking and smiling easier.…