TMJ and Sleep Disorders

Your sleep disorder could have a new cause and that’s a disorder of the Temporomandibular Joint. It is a joint that connects your lower and upper jaw and is present on both sides of your face. When this joint undergoes certain dysfunction, it might lead to several symptoms called Temporomandibular disorders, one of which is a sleep disorder.

Causes

• This condition might arise when the airway collapses and the automatic response in the body is a forward protrusion of the lower jaw. The other symptoms could be chronic fatigue, pain in the jaw due to incomplete rest.
• Bruxism is a common TMJ disorder that can interrupt your sleep. Bruxism is a condition in which the jaw muscles clench, exerting pressure on your teeth, jaw, and joints. This results in teeth grinding bringing acute pain to the joints and teeth.
• TMJ disorder could also cause stress, anxiety, or one might lose appetite and this, in turn, could affect your sleep.
• The TMJ disorder can lead to a variety of conditions including headache, jaw pain, earaches, or pain behind the eyes, falling asleep could also be more difficult.
• Jaw misalignment is also a TMJ disorder that could collapse the airways. In extreme cases if airways are blocked or restricted, loud snoring and even temporary choking might occur.

A TMJ specialist is a dentist who is trained to treat Temporomandibular disorder and can guide you with the entire treatment process based on your condition.

• Your dentist might suggest you oral appliances like a splint or a mouth guard that is custom fit and used to reposition your lower jaw to keep the airway open. This will regulate your breathing and improve your quality of sleep.
• Stress-relieving exercises can help ease joint mobility and help in biting, chewing, and yawning without any pain or discomfort.
• Medications prescribed can help ease pain and inflammation in the absence of which can bring good sleep.
• The condition is also treated with a CPAP machine that ensures positive airflow, which will keep the airways open.
• Bite orthotics may be recommended to some. It can be an effective sleep apnea treatment, holding the tongue in place making the airways stay open.
• Lifestyle changes could help in treating TMJ disorders. Losing weight and leading a healthier lifestyle may reduce risks for both conditions and is recommended by doctors.

Sleep disorders usually have an effect all through the day. If you do not get quality sleep, you will be frequently tired and report daytime tiredness, irritability, memory issues, and other problems.

A TMJ disorder that is affecting your sleep could have a major effect on your life and family. Your sleepless nights might be a concern to them and even they might spend sleepless nights. Your pain and worry can be treated if you start early treatment with a TMJ specialist.

We at Ivory Clinic specialise in treating TMJ cases. We are one of the best dental clinics in Nerul and bring the latest in dental care and treatments to you. If you are struggling with a sleep disorder due to TMJ or due to unknown conditions, book, an appointment with us to have an early prognosis.