Morning Headacahes and Sleep Apnea

The two major causes of morning headaches are sleep apnea and night-time clenching and grinding. As much of 80% of grinding and clenching is secondary to sleep apnea. Patients who routinely wake with morning headaches need to be evaluated and treated if they have sleep apnea. Headaches that occur at waking but continue throughout the day are more likely related to TMJ disorders.

Oral appliances can treat sleep apnea at night but a different type of appliance can treat headaches, facial pain, migraines and jaw problems. Patients suffering from chronic headaches will find the I HATE HEADACHES site a valuable resource. The site focuses on how neuromuscular dentistry can relieve migraines andtension-type headaches, chronic daily headaches and sinus pain.

http://www.ihateheadaches.org

Oral Appliances for Severe sleep Apnea

I have severe sleep apnea 56 per minute is your process appropriate?

The answer is yes, Oral Appliances are appropriate for treating severe apnea when patients do not tolerate CPAP. I have treated many patients with severe apnea successfully. The AASM and the AADSM consider oral appliances as a first line treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea and an alternative treatment for severe sleep apnea. The TAP appliance is the most effective appliance , in my opinion, for severe sleep apnea.

It is vital to have a follow-up study to insure efficacy.