Breathing and Your TMJ’s
As a bioesthetic dentist practicing in Burlington, I often hear patients ask, “What do my airways have to do with my TMJ’s?” It’s a great question, and the answer might surprise you.
Most people don’t realize how interconnected the jaw, airway, posture, and overall health really are. What may seem like a minor jaw issue can have far-reaching effects on your ability to breathe and sleep comfortably.
At Chittenden Dental in Burlington, we take a comprehensive approach to dental care, especially when it comes to issues like TMD, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction.
The Role of the TMJ in Breathing and Balance
Your temporomandibular joints, the hinges connecting your jaw to your skull, are much more than just chewing joints. They play a crucial role in head posture and airway support.
When the TMJs are not properly aligned, it can affect the position of your jaw, tongue, and even your neck muscles. This misalignment may partially block your airway, making it harder to breathe, especially during sleep.
As a Burlington bioesthetic dentist, I focus on restoring the natural harmony between the teeth, jaw joints, muscles, and airways. This philosophy, known as bioesthetic dentistry, is designed to optimize function and comfort, not just appearance.
How Your TMJ’s Affects Your Airways
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction can cause your lower jaw to sit too far back. When this happens, the base of the tongue may encroach on the airway, especially when lying down. This can lead to snoring, mouth breathing, and even sleep apnea. If you’ve been diagnosed with TMD and experience disrupted sleep, the two may be more connected than you think.
At our Burlington bioesthetic dentist’s office, we assess not only your bite and joint function but also your airway space using advanced diagnostics. When your airway is compromised, your body often adapts in ways that create more tension in the jaw and neck. This leads to chronic discomfort and fatigue.
A Bioesthetic Solution for Your TMJ’s
The beauty of bioesthetic dentistry is that it allows us to address the root cause of dysfunction. By gently repositioning the jaw to its ideal natural alignment, we can often improve both joint function and airway openness. This holistic approach leads to better breathing, better sleep, and far less jaw pain.
If you’re struggling with jaw discomfort, clenching, or unexplained sleep issues, don’t ignore the signs. As your Burlington bioesthetic dentist, I invite you to visit Chittenden Dental for a comprehensive evaluation. Your airway and your TMJ are more connected than you might think, and by treating one, we can often help the other.
