Sleep Apnea and TMJ

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment

A person’s quality of life is impacted by sleep-related breathing disorders. Many patients who snore or feel drowsy during the day don’t even realize they may have a disorder. Treatment often starts with realizing that these symptoms could be signs of something much more serious.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most common  breathing disorders. Sometimes during sleep, the airway becomes obstructed due to this disease. Since there are no hard structures to keep the airway open, the soft palate and the base of the tongue are where this obstruction typically occurs. 

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that must first be diagnosed by your PCP or sleep physician. Here, at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh, we practice what is called dental sleep medicine. We use appliance therapy that helps hold the jaws in a comfortable position, stabilizing the tongue, and helping to hold the airway open.

How We Can Help You

Let TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh be your trusted source for adult sleep apnea treatment. Sleep apnea is a common and serious sleep disorder that affects millions of adults worldwide. It is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to fragmented and poor-quality sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last for a few seconds to minutes and can occur numerous times throughout the night.

One of the lesser-known connections to sleep apnea is its relationship with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). The temporomandibular joint is responsible for the movement of the jaw, allowing us to speak, chew, and yawn. When there is an imbalance or dysfunction in this joint, it can contribute to the development or worsening of sleep apnea. TMJ disorder often involves issues such as misalignment of the jaw, muscle tension, or clenching and grinding of the teeth, all of which can obstruct the airway and lead to sleep apnea episodes.

Sleep Therapy Services

At the TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh, we specialize in diagnosing and treating both sleep apnea and TMJ disorder. Our comprehensive approach involves a thorough evaluation to determine the root cause of your sleep apnea and its relation to TMJ. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and techniques to assess your jaw function, airway structure, and sleep patterns. Our team of highly trained professionals will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both conditions.

Sleep Services For Adults

In many cases, oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for adult sleep apnea and TMJ disorder. These custom-fitted devices are worn during sleep and are designed to reposition the jaw and stabilize the airway, allowing for improved breathing and reduced sleep apnea episodes. The oral appliances we provide at our center are comfortable, discreet, and easy to use. They offer a non-invasive alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines and surgery, providing patients with a convenient and comfortable solution for their sleep apnea and TMJ concerns.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms for Adults

• Unexplained daytime sleepiness
• Restless sleep
• Loud snoring (with periods of silence followed by gasps)
• Morning headaches
• Insomnia
• Trouble concentrating
• Mood changes such as irritability, anxiety and depression
• Forgetfulness
• Increased heart rate and/or blood pressure
• Decreased sex drive
• Unexplained weight gain
• Changes in urination
• Frequent heartburn and heavy night sweats

Don’t let adult sleep apnea and TMJ disorder disrupt your sleep and impact your quality of life. Visit the TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh, where our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve restful sleep and optimal jaw function. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more rejuvenating sleep experience.

LEARN ABOUT SLEEP APNEA IN CHILDREN