Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can lead to a variety of health issues, including chronic headaches, memory problems, and even severe respiratory problems if not treated properly. This disorder is often associated with one’s airway becoming blocked due to relaxation of the muscles around the airway, causing the sleeper to stop breathing and start again. Many factors can contribute to the development or worsening of sleep apnea, and one of them is a condition known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). TMJ can exacerbate sleep apnea, making the condition even more dangerous. Fortunately, Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend offers treatment options that can help patients find relief from the symptoms of both of these conditions.
What Is TMJ?
TMJ is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joints, which are located on either side of the face near the ears. These joints are important as they allow us to open and close our mouths, chew food, speak, and swallow. In TMJ, these joints become painful and inflamed, making it difficult to move the jaw. This condition often leads to chronic headaches, earaches, difficulty eating, and increased snoring. Over time, TMJ can lead to more severe complications, such as dental problems, osteoarthritis, and even sleep apnea.
How Does TMJ Contribute to Sleep Apnea?
When a person has TMJ, the muscles of the jaw become tightened and inflamed, making it difficult to fully open and close one’s mouth. This restriction can lead to an increased risk of airway obstruction since the airway may become partially or fully blocked. Furthermore, those who have TMJ often experience an increased amount of snoring due to the muscles around the airway becoming too relaxed. This reduced muscle tone can further aggravate sleep apnea by allowing the soft tissues in the throat to fall limp, blocking airflow further. As a result, those who have TMJ are even more at risk for experiencing the breathing interruptions that are characteristic of sleep apnea.
Can a Dentist Help with TMJ and Sleep Apnea?
While many treatment options focus on addressing the symptoms of sleep apnea, such as using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, dentists can be instrumental in treating both of these conditions. Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend is well-versed in treating TMJ and can work with patients to develop a treatment plan that addresses both this condition and sleep apnea directly. She offers a variety of therapy options, including occlusal splints, CCFT (cranial cervical flexion test), trigger point therapy, and BOTOX injections to help alleviate the pain associated with TMJ and address the muscle tension and airway obstruction that can exacerbate sleep apnea.
Conclusion
Both TMJ and sleep apnea can keep one from enjoying a full and restful night’s sleep, leading to a variety of health issues. TMJ can contribute to sleep apnea by causing muscle tension that leads to airway obstruction, snoring, and increased risk of breathing interruption. If you are suffering from either of these conditions, Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend can help. She offers various therapy options to help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ and address the muscle tension and airway obstruction associated with sleep apnea. Reach out to Dr. Mingus for more information on how she can help you get the rest you deserve.
