TMJ Sleep Apnea Causes Solutions

TMJ Sleep Apnea: Causes & Dental Solutions

Although sleep apnea is fairly common in the United States, few people understand how the sleep disorder relates to dentistry or the seriousness of the condition if it is left untreated.

Explaining Sleep Apnea

Approximately 12 million people in the U.S. suffer from the breathing disorder called sleep apnea. A distinguishing feature of the condition is interruptions in the normal breathing cycle while sleeping. The involuntary interruptions can occur hundreds of times in a single night and last a minute or longer.

Different types of sleep apnea exist, with obstructive sleep apnea being the most common type. A person with obstructive sleep apnea has an obstruction of the upper airway that prevents oxygen from entering the lungs.

Causes of TMJ Sleep Apnea

TMJ disorder often causes obstructive sleep apnea. A dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can lead to pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, due to improper positioning of the jaw joint.

When the jaw joint is out of position, it forces the mouth to move slightly. As a result, the throat and upper airway typically become reduce in size.

Why TMJ Sleep Apnea Treatment is Crucial

Seeking obstructive sleep apnea treatment is important to decrease the chances of developing cardiovascular issues, headaches, memory difficulties, concentration problems, and infertility. In severe cases, untreated sleep apnea can progress to a heart attack or stroke, making it a life-threatening condition.

The Dentist & TMJ Sleep Apnea Treatment

Now that you know the connection between the mouth and sleep apnea, it makes sense to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment of TMJ sleep apnea. In Houston and throughout Texas, Dental Wellness Group offers quality obstructive sleep apnea treatment.

One treatment method for TMJ issues involves creating removable mouth devices or splints, which TMJ sleep apnea patients wear at night to help keep their upper airways open. The oral appliances are custom made and prove to be an effective solution for most mild to moderate cases, thereby removing the need for surgical intervention.

Another option at Dental Wellness Group, if you do not want to wear an oral appliance, is obstructive sleep apnea treatment. The treatment process typically is longer and more complex, but it delivers results that last a lifetime.

Why Visit Dental Wellness Group?

A major benefit of choosing Dental Wellness Group for your TMJ sleep apnea treatment is that you get accurate diagnoses and correction of your TMJ dysfunction, thanks to Dr. Moradi’s advanced education and experience.

TMJ disorder frequently leads to aching of the neck, back, and head, as well as ear pain or a stuffy feeling in the ears. Some sufferers also feel dizzy or faint. While many people incorrectly think they have an ear infection and go to their general practitioner, the dentist is the most suitable expert to consult in this case.

Dental Wellness Group offers safe obstructive sleep apnea treatment for patients across Texas that fixes the issue. To find out if you are a candidate, contact our Houston office today to make an appointment.