What is the connection between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and TMJ pain? There is much literature around discussing this and its possible relationships. I personally, as a Houston TMJ Dentist and Houston Sleep Apnea Dentist, continue to read studies and reports on this topic.
Some feel that bruxism is caused by sleep apnea, some feel that sleep apnea is a result of bite problems that led to a collapsed bite which in turn forces the jaw backwards and obstructs the airway. There is no clear consensus at this time.
In my opinion, at this time, is that those with OSA need to be treated for airway problems, not neuromuscular dentistry treatment. If we can keep our patients breathing properly at nighttime then address the NM issues which case pain and destruction of their teeth.
Much is to be learned and it is a very exciting field to be part of as we are continually improving our patients health and well-being.
Please feel free to call our office if you have any questions regarding sleep apnea dental appliances or TMJ pain or TMJ problems. We welcome the opportunity to assist you, 713-668-2289, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF
