Do you find yourself waking up with a dry mouth and bad breath? Are you constantly fatigued? Do you have trouble falling asleep or find yourself waking up during the night? These symptoms may be connected to an underlying issue – mouth breathing. Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend can help address the issues of mouth breathing, temporal mandibular joint disorders (TMJ), and how these conditions are connected to sleep disturbances.
The Impact of Mouth Breathing
Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose can be associated with a number of health issues. Poor breathing patterns may lead to snoring, sleep apnea, anxiety, and even depression. Mouth breathing is also associated with an increased risk of developing conditions like enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or allergies. Mouth breathing can be directly related to the arguably chronic issue of poor posture. Many people unconsciously tip their heads forward, creating neck tension, uneven jaw alignment, and an inability to take in adequate oxygen through their nose.
Temporal Mandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
TMJ disorder occurs when there is inflammation and pain in the joint and muscle near the jaw. This condition can lead to difficulty eating, speaking, and yawning. TMJ can also contribute to migraines, neck aches, and poor sleep. This condition is commonly diagnosed when an individual exhibits painful clicking, popping, and grating sounds near the jaw area.
How Dr. Kelley Mingus Can Help
Dr. Kelley Mingus is a dedicated dentist in Bend with over a decade of experience in treating mouth breathing, TMJ disorders, and sleep apnea. She and her team use state-of-the-art dental imaging and equipment to help patients achieve better oral health. Dr. Mingus takes a comprehensive approach to treating mouth breathing and TMJ. She starts by speaking with the patient about their symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. She also evaluates the patient’s posture and breathing patterns. Dr. Mingus may recommend posture exercises, breathing exercises, and dietary changes to help alleviate the symptoms associated with mouth breathing and TMJ. For more severe cases, Dr. Mingus may refer the patient to a specialist for additional treatment.
The Connection Between Mouth Breathing, TMJ, and Sleep
Mouth breathing and TMJ are often connected to sleep disturbances. Individuals who breathe through their mouths at night may have difficulty falling asleep and may wake up frequently during the night. TMJ can lead to migraines and poor sleep. Over time, inadequate sleep can lead to depression, anxiety, and other health concerns.
Conclusion
Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend understands the connection between mouth breathing, TMJ, and sleep. She offers a thorough examination of the patient’s symptoms and creates a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of the issues. Dr. Mingus and her team use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to help patients achieve better oral health. If you are experiencing symptoms of mouth breathing, TMJ, or poor sleep, it’s important to make an appointment to see Dr. Mingus to discuss treatment options.
