Do you often wake up with headaches, a sore jaw, or feeling exhausted despite a full night's sleep? You might be experiencing the connection between sleep apnea and TMJ disorder, two common conditions your Scottsdale dentist sees regularly.
When Your Jaw and Breathing Work Against Each Other
Sleep apnea and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders might seem unrelated, but they are actually interconnected. TMJ disorder causes pain in the joint connecting your jaw to your skull, while sleep apnea interrupts your breathing during sleep. Unfortunately, these conditions often create a troublesome cycle, each making the other worse.
The Connection Your Dentist Sees
When you have sleep apnea, your body instinctively tries to keep the airway open so you can breathe. One way it does this is by moving the jaw forward during sleep, giving the TMJ a workout while your body's supposed to rest.
Conversely, if TMJ disorder has already restricted your jaw movement, it might be contributing to a narrowed airway that worsens your sleep apnea. It's a bit like trying to breathe through a partially blocked straw—frustrating and exhausting.
Signs You Might Be Dealing with Both Conditions
Pay attention if you experience:
- Morning headaches that feel like they're radiating from your temples
- A clicking or popping sensation when you open your mouth
- Jaw pain or stiffness throughout the day
- Daytime fatigue despite sleeping through the night
- Your partner mentioning that you snore loudly or stop breathing during sleep
How Your Scottsdale Sleep Apnea Dentist Can Help
The good news? Your Scottsdale dentist can often address both conditions with similar treatments, and oral appliance therapy can be particularly effective.
This custom-fitted device fits over the teeth and gently positions the jaw to keep the airway open while relieving TMJ discomfort. It solves two problems with one solution: helping you breathe better and reducing strain on your jaw joint.
Better Sleep Starts with a Phone Call
Don't let another night go by with poor sleep and jaw pain. Call Dynamite Smiles Dentistry to schedule a consultation with Dr. Saba Heday and see how we can help you breathe easily and get a good night’s rest.