You can develop sleep apnea and TMJ simultaneously. The dentists at The Greater Attleboro Center for Dental Sleep Medicine treat TMJ and sleep apnea in Attleboro Falls, MA.
TMJ Disorder
If you notice a recurring problem with your temporomandibular joint, it is known as TMJ. Symptoms usually include pain, clicking, popping, and tight or sore facial muscles.
Causes of TMJ include:
- Genetics
- Arthritis
- Jaw trauma or injury
When you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, it can make TMJ pain worse.
TMJ and Sleep Apnea
Many who suffer from TMJ struggle with sleeping. The link between the two comes down to the fact that the airway collapses, and the body automatically responds by pushing the lower jaw forward to open the airway. The constant motion of the TMJ as you sleep through the night can cause a lot of tension and stress in the joints of the jaw, and that is why TMJ and sleep apnea go hand in hand.
Those who have TMJ also suffer from chronic fatigue that can exacerbate sleep apnea and impact their overall health. Another link is that your TMJ can be caused by a misalignment of your jaw that also prevents the airway from staying open while you sleep.
How to Improve Your Sleep and TMJ
Although TMJ can go away on its own, you don't have to live with the jawn pain and discomfort. Your dentists are sleep apnea experts in Attleboro Falls, MA, and can help find the treatment to fit your needs. Good sleep is essential and can directly impact your overall health. Therefore, it is best to take care of yourself and get better rest at night.
Possible Treatments for TMJ Include:
- Mouthguards
- Oral splints
- Medications like muscle relaxers or anti-inflammatories
- Surgery for severe TMJ issues
- Corticosteroid injections for pain relief
- Botox injects to induce muscle relaxation
- Psychological counseling to help with stress management
- Massage and stretching exercises
TMJ may go away on its own, but sleep apnea will not and can cause serious health complications when left untreated. Sleep apnea can increase your risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and many others diseases.
Possible Treatments for Sleep Apnea Include:
- BiPAP or CPAP Machine
- Oral appliance therapy
- Surgery for serious cases
If you are experiencing any jaw discomfort and sleep difficulty, you should see your local dentists and sleep experts for answers. It is time to call the sleep apnea experts of The Greater Attleboro Center for Dental Sleep Medicine in Attleboro Falls, MA, by dialing (508) 699-9550.