TMJ and Sleep Apnea

The Link Between TMJ and Sleep Disorders

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) and sleep apnea are two conditions that can impact your overall health and well-being. While they may seem unrelated, recent research has found a significant link between temporomandibular joint disorder and sleep apnea.

Explore this connection and discuss the potential impact on your health. To seek treatment, contact our dentist in Vero Beach by calling (772) 778-5550 today.

 

What Is Sleep Apnea?patient and dentist going over patient forms

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can result in poor sleep quality and a host of health issues, including cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and chronic fatigue.

There are two main types of sleep apnea:

  1. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat fail to keep your airway open, despite efforts to breathe. As a result, the oxygen level in your blood drops, and your brain is briefly aroused from sleep to signal the muscles to tighten and open the airway.
  2. Central sleep apnea is less common and occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe, resulting in a temporary lapse of breathing during sleep. Unlike OSA, there’s no physical obstruction in the airway.

Symptoms of TMJ and Sleep Apnea

TMJ Disorder Symptoms

Sleep Apnea Symptoms

The Connection Between TMJ and Sleep Apnea

Recent studies have suggested that there may be a link between TMJ and sleep apnea. One study found that nearly 40 percent of patients with TMD also had sleep apnea.

Signs of TMJ Disorders Caused by Sleep Apnea

Signs that TMD may be caused by sleep apnea include:

Treatment for TMJ and Sleep DisordersExtracted Teeth

For TMD, treatment may include:

For sleep apnea, treatment may include:

For some, treating one condition may also help alleviate the symptoms of the other. For example, treating sleep apnea with a CPAP machine may help reduce teeth grinding and clenching, which can help alleviate TMJ disorder symptoms.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should I see if I suspect I have TMD or sleep apnea?

If you suspect you have TMD or sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with your dentist or doctor. They can perform an examination and refer you to a sleep specialist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The doctor you’re referred to will depend on your TMD symptoms.

Will treating sleep apnea help with TMD?

There’s some evidence to suggest that treating sleep apnea can help alleviate symptoms of TMD. When sleep apnea is treated with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or other methods, it can reduce the tension and strain on the jaw joint during sleep. This can improve TMD symptoms, such as pain and difficulty opening the mouth.

What is the best sleeping position for TMD?

For individuals with TMD, sleeping on their back with a small pillow or rolled towel under the neck for support is recommended. Sleeping on the stomach should be avoided as it can put unnecessary strain on the neck and jaw. Consult a sleep specialist for more tips on managing TMD and sleep apnea.

Can TMJ disorder cause sleep apnea?

Yes, TMJ disorder can contribute to sleep apnea by affecting the alignment of the jaw and airway, leading to obstruction during sleep.

Improve Your Sleep and Jaw Pain With Personalized Care

You don’t have to live with jaw pain any longer. Take control of your health and schedule a consultation today by calling (772) 778-5550.

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