Friday, July 19, 2013

Is Sleep Apnea caused by TMD?



Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is the name given to anything that results in the misalignment of the jaw. TMD may be caused by trauma, stress, bruxism, certain types of arthritis, and disc erosion and is often marked by pain and swelling around the jaw joint.

In a study published in the Journal of Orofacial Pain, it was found that 52 percent of patients with sleep apnea had mild to moderate TMD. The findings of this study have been compelling enough to prompt the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to begin studying sleep apnea as a temporomandibular disorder.

With this information, it is not surprising that both TMD and sleep apnea treatment are often treated with oral appliances. With both disorders these appliances are customized by a sleep apnea dentist to fit comfortably in the mouth during sleep, but there may be some slight differences.

Sleep apnea appliances generally angle the jaw to allow for proper airflow while TMD appliances will be created to retrain jaw muscles in their optimal alignment. However, if you are suffering from sleep apnea and TMD, your dentist may be able to customize an orthotic device that addresses both issues at the same time.

If you are suffering from any of the symptoms of sleep apnea or TMD, please contact I Hate CPAP today to find a qualified physician in your area.

http://www.ihateheadaches.org/