More than 85 million Americans are estimated to suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, while about 35 million Americans are diagnosed with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). The first thing these two conditions have in common is that studies for both conditions conclude that many more people suffer one or both of these conditions, but simply haven’t been diagnosed. At Berson Family Dentistry, your Monticello, NY dentists note that both conditions respond well to similar treatments such as custom-made oral appliances.

Sleep Apnea and TMJ Symptom Connections

At first, the two conditions may seem totally separate. TMJ comes with irritating jaw pain, stiffness, popping, facial pain, and sometimes ear pain. Sleep apnea is characterized by loud snoring, restless sleep, exhaustion, and headaches. The two conditions dovetail in the following ways, however:

Bruxism is a Factor

Nighttime teeth grinding is a subconscious activity that both TMJ and sleep apnea frequently share. This excess stress on the jaw creates TMJ symptoms, and scientists have connected bruxism with sleep apnea patients whose brains are constantly trying to reposition their jaws and tongues for better breathing. Our dentists in Monticello, NY often notice that patients with both show signs of worn-down tooth enamel characteristic of teeth grinding.

Loud, Shuddering Snoring

Both TMJ patients and sleep apnea patients (and their partners) report loud snoring as a common symptom between both conditions.

Jaw Muscle Inflammation and Stiffness

The position of the jaw and tongue while sleeping can affect pressure on the airway. Patients with TMJ have inflamed, tense jaw muscles that can sometimes cause airway problems.

Patients with TMJ and Sleep Apnea are So Tired

Whether bruxism is the brain trying to move the tongue and jaw into a better position for breathing, or bruxism causes poor tongue positioning, it’s hard to tell. What’s very easy to tell, however, is that patients who struggle with TMJ and sleep apnea are not getting the sleep they need. They often wake up tired and suffer from morning headaches and dry mouth.

Custom Oral Appliances for TMJ and Sleep Apnea Treatment in Monticello, NY

Here at Berson Family Dentistry, the dentists Monticello neighbors trust for TMJ relief can also help with sleep apnea treatment by designing custom-made oral appliances. These are designed to prevent bruxism while also gently positioning the tongue and jaw forward to keep the airway open overnight. If you are experiencing symptoms of either TMJ or sleep apnea, schedule an appointment and get back to sleeping soundly at night.