When you’re suffering from a TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder), the chronic pain in your jaw is the symptom that you’re most likely to notice. But a problem with your jaw joints could also contribute to a number of other issues – including, surprisingly enough, sleep apnea. What is the relationship between TMD and sleep? And what can you do to relieve your pain and get a good night’s rest again? The following post has the answers.
What Exactly are TMD and Sleep Apnea?
A TMD is a condition that causes pain and dysfunction in the joints and muscles that control your jaw. Sometimes the issue is caused by an injury of the joint, such as a displaced disc; in other cases, the muscles around the joint might be overworked or strained. Regardless of the cause, you can usually expect TMD to be accompanied by jaw discomfort, headaches, earaches, and various other symptoms.
Meanwhile, sleep apnea is a condition where you experience repeated pauses in your breathing while you’re asleep. Most of the time, it’s caused by the airway being blocked by relaxed throat muscles. Every time there’s a pause in your breathing, your brain forces you to wake up to reopen the airway. This prevents you from reaching the deepest stages of sleep, leading to severe drowsiness during the day as well as a number of health problems.
How Can TMD Cause Sleep Apnea?
According to one study, 43% of patients who have a TMD also suffer from a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea. So what’s the link between these two conditions? When you have a TMD, your jaw joint is likely out of its proper position. This causes your mouth to move slightly, which narrows your throat and upper airway. As a result, you will be much more likely to experience the breathing interruptions that are associated with sleep apnea.
What Can You Do About TMD and Sleep Apnea?
If you’re suffering from TMD and sleep apnea, your dentist may be able to help treat both conditions. In the case of TMD, they might offer a specialized oral appliance that helps reduce stress on the jaw joints and the surrounding muscles, giving them a chance to heal. Oral appliances can also be used to address sleep apnea symptoms by repositioning the lower jaw along with the tongue and other soft tissues, thus keeping the airway clear throughout the night.
Both TMD and sleep apnea can grow worse over time if they’re ignored for too long. The quicker you seek treatment from a professional, the sooner you’ll be able to find relief from your pain and enjoy a full night’s rest again.
About the Author
Dr. Pam West’s dental career spans over three full decades. She earned her dental doctorate at the University of Southern California Dental School, and she is currently a member of several professional organizations, including the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. At iSleep Solutions in Las Vegas, she offers personalized treatments to help her patients overcome sleep apnea as well as TMD. To schedule a consultation with Dr. West, visit her website or call (702) 602-2000.