Rest Well With TMD & Sleep Apnea Treatment in Woodbridge

At Pine Seven Dental Centre in Woodbridge, ON, we understand the critical role that oral health plays in overall well-being. Two common conditions that often go untreated are Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) and sleep apnea. While both can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, they can also be treated with timely and personalized care.

Understanding TMD & How Dental Treatment Helps

TMD involves pain and dysfunction of the jaw joints and muscles that control jaw movement, with symptoms including jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement, difficulty chewing, and headaches. When left untreated, TMD can cause severe pain and chronic jaw dysfunction.

Treatments for TMD focus on alleviating pressure on the jaw joints and reducing inflammation with customized oral appliances, such as splints or mouthguards. These devices help stabilize the jaw position and prevent teeth grinding, which can exacerbate TMD symptoms.

Addressing Sleep Apnea with Dental Treatment

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These interruptions can occur hundreds of times a night, leading to significant health issues, including daytime fatigue, cardiovascular stress, and increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Common symptoms include loud snoring, sudden awakenings with a sensation of choking, and morning headaches.

Dentists can play a crucial role in treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by designing custom oral appliances that keep the airway open during sleep. These devices adjust the position of the lower jaw and tongue, reducing airway obstruction. Unlike CPAP machines, a common treatment for sleep apnea, oral appliances are portable, convenient, and generally well-tolerated by patients.

The Importance of Early Treatment

Seeking early treatment for both TMD and sleep apnea is crucial. For TMD, early intervention prevents further damage to the jaw joints and muscles, reducing the risk of developing chronic pain. In the case of sleep apnea, addressing the condition early can significantly lower the risk of developing associated health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Are you interested in learning more? Our caring and compassionate team is here to help. Call today!