TMJ and Sleep Apnea
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Exceptional oral health care that will make your whole family smile.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is one of the most complex joints in the body and a common area for recurring pain. When a collection of symptoms that cause discomfort occurs, a condition known as TMD, or temporomandibular dysfunction, develops. However, the term “TMJ” is often used to describe the pain associated with TMD.
Common symptoms include facial muscle pain or discomfort, clicking of the jaw joint(s), frequent headaches, earaches, dizziness, difficulty opening or chewing, pain inside the jaw joint, and broken or cracked teeth. Symptoms can be related to a misaligned bite, a jaw alignment problem, a habit like teeth clenching and/or grinding, an airway problem, stress, or a combination of factors.
Splint Therapy for TMJ
We can help with TMJ treatment tailored to your symptoms and needs. A dental splint or orthotic appliance can help protect your teeth from clenching and grinding at night and re-align muscles and joints. Bite adjustment, orthodontics, or restorations can help if further treatment is needed. Each dentist is a TMJ specialist at Greenwood Dental Arts.
Sleep Apnea Oral Appliances
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which your breathing is interrupted while you sleep. Left untreated, even mild sleep apnea can be dangerous to your health and should be treated.
Sleep apnea can only be diagnosed by medical doctors; however, once sleep apnea has been diagnosed, oral appliance therapy with your dentist may be an option for you. The oral appliance is specifically designed to support your jaw in a position that helps maintain an open airway while sleeping.