Sleep Apnea & TMJ Treatment in Huntsville, AL

The joint connecting the jaw to the skull is known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Place your fingers in front of your ears; you can feel the joint when you move your jaw. This joint lets you move your jaw up and down as well as side to side, allowing you to talk, eat, sing, and yawn. When it isn't functioning correctly, it can cause pain in your face and neck and make it difficult to even open your mouth. This is known as TMJ disorder or TMD.

When we're talking about preventative measures, at the moment, there isn't enough evidence to show that treatment can prevent TMJ disorders. Studies have shown that orthodontic treatment does not prevent TMJ problems and does not cause them either. Treatment should be based on a misaligned bite that can be corrected, not on a TMJ issue. Additionally, grinding and clenching of the jaw during the night can cause jaw pain—which can be corrected with a nighttime mouthguard.

Looking for TMJ Treatment in Huntsville, Alabama?

Do you clench your jaw? Grind your teeth? Have arthritis? Are you under a lot of stress and find that you carry most of it in your jaw and face? Please get in touch with us at Twickenham Family Dentistry if you are experiencing pain or jaw issues.

Dr. Cook can also fit you with a nighttime mouthguard if you have problems with your teeth and jaw. A mouthguard will help keep you from clenching or grinding your teeth in your sleep. If these things don't help relieve your symptoms, you might need other treatments like physical therapy. But most people with TMD get better with self-care and treatment from a dentist.

Do you feel drained throughout the day? Do you wake up with headaches? If so, you may have sleep apnea. 

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes you to stop and start breathing repeatedly through the night. Due to the constant starting and stopping of your breathing, your body struggles to maintain enough oxygen to function properly.

Since you are not getting enough oxygen at night with sleep apnea, you will feel sluggish and tired while awake. Sleep apnea episodes occur while you are sleeping and unaware, which means your daytime symptoms may be your first sign of the disorder.

Other symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• Waking abruptly, usually while choking or gasping for air
• Sore throat on waking
• Dry mouth on waking
• Mood changes
• Difficulty concentrating

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms but have not been diagnosed, contact our office for assistance. We will refer you to a sleep physician who can diagnose your condition. 

If you’ve already been diagnosed with sleep apnea, we can work with you and your current physician to best treat your situation. 

Sleep Apnea’s Affect on Health and Happiness

Unfortunately, untreated sleep apnea can affect your health and happiness in a variety of ways. Your body needs oxygen to function correctly. Without proper oxygen, you will be extremely fatigued, which means you may have difficulty pursuing everyday activities. Even driving becomes dangerous with sleep apnea due to your increased likelihood of falling asleep behind the wheel. 

Sleep apnea has also been linked to several health problems, including headaches, depression, high blood pressure, heart failure, and more. 

It is in your best interest, and the best interest of the people around you, to have your sleep apnea diagnosed and treated by a professional. 

Sleep Apnea Treatment in Huntsville, AL

At Twickenham Family Dentistry, we treat sleep apnea with the SomnoDent oral appliance. SomnoDent is non-invasive, and it’s a great option for people who haven’t had success with CPAP equipment. 

The SomnoDent is easy-to-use. Simply slip it in your mouth before you go to sleep at night. The oral appliance guides your lower jaw forward, which keeps your airway clear as you sleep. 

If you’re ready for sleep apnea treatment, reach out to our dental office today. Dr. Cook would love to help you enjoy a more active, healthy life by treating your sleep apnea!