Sleep apnea in Lawton is a serious condition that affects many people in our community. Left untreated, apnea can increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious illnesses. Part of managing apnea symptoms is knowing your risk factors for the condition. For many people, this includes the presence of TMJ disorder, a condition in which patients clench or grind their teeth during sleep.
Sleep Apnea and TMJ Disorder: A Proven Link
Most of us think of sleep as an unconscious state of deep, blissful relaxation. All too often, however, we carry the worries and tensions of the day with us into our resting hours. This is especially likely for those who have stressful occupations or who are facing personal or emotional struggles.
This problem can express itself in many ways, from bad dreams to ongoing muscular and nervous tension that causes teeth grinding and airway blockage. When the last two conditions occur together, the patient may suffer from any or all of the following symptoms:
- Jaw pain or stiffness: sometimes this problem is so severe that patients have trouble opening or closing their mouth.
- Headache: especially upon awakening or in the early morning hours.
- Dry mouth: caused by curtailed saliva production complicated by the presence of apnea.
- Worn, cracked, or crooked teeth: caused by tooth grinding.
- Drowsiness, irritability, or “mental fog:” caused by oxygen deprivation during rest.
- High blood pressure, heart complications, or increased blood sugar levels: caused by the increased stress associated with both sleep apnea and TMJ disorder.
See your dentist or other healthcare professional right away if you are suffering from these problems. You may be dealing with TMJ disorder, sleep apnea, or a combination of the two.
Treating TMJ -Related Sleep Apnea
Dentists are often the first medical professionals to suspect a case of TMJ-related sleep apnea. As experts in the field of oral health, they’re trained to spot telltale warning signs like the ones mentioned above. Here’s how they may be able to help you to obtain relief:
- By performing a complete oral exam: some of the more common indicators of sleep apnea include unusually large neck circumference, loose tissue in the palate or throat, and narrow airway passages.
- By authorizing a formal sleep study: In the past, this required the patient to spend the night in a supervised residential-type environment. Nowadays, it’s often possible to obtain a diagnosis with an at-home study instead. Many find that this offers a more comfortable and accurate diagnostic experience.
- By prescribing a customized oral appliance: this is quickly becoming a preferred method for sleep apnea treatment in Lawton. Not only does the product discourage teeth grinding, it also helps to keep the airway open during sleep. This allows the patient to get the deep, refreshing rest he or she needs.
A Problem too Serious to Ignore
Whether you see a dentist or other medical professional about your symptoms, we urge you to seek help for your sleep apnea/TMJ disorder symptoms. Failure to do so can have disastrous consequences for your long-term health. Make your appointment today; then get ready for a healthier, happier, more restful tomorrow.
About the Author
Dr. David J Drummond is a seasoned dentist who specializes in the treatment of sleep apnea and related problems. He served our troops for many years as a member of the U.S. Army Dental Corps before setting up private practice here in Lawton. You can reach his office online or by calling 580-227-8789.