For patients suffering from pain associated with TMD / TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), that pain can often interfere with their ability to sleep. While this can turn even the sweetest patient into a “grump”, it can also have serious health effects.
During a mouse study focusing on the effect of losing sleep, researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center made a disturbing discovery.
Researchers found that only during sleep can the brain naturally flush out toxins. One toxin in particular that the brain cannot flush out properly without adequate sleep was beta-amyloid. Beta-amyloid is a toxic protein known for accumulating in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Mice who received a healthy amount of sleep were able to flush out this damaging toxin twice as fast as mice who did not receive an adequate amount of sleep.
If you are suffering from TMD and are not able to sleep properly due to the disorder, Dr. Cliff Compton’s practice in Concord, NC offers TMJ Appliance Therapy.
What is TMD?
TMD stands for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder and refers to any pain associated with the temporomandibular joint. This joint connects the lower jaw to the skull and is responsible for chewing, speaking, yawning, etc.
In most cases of TMD, it is unclear what causes the pain. Various factors can include trauma to the joint, overuse of the joint, stress or clenching of the teeth.
Symptoms of TMD can include:
- Pain in the face and jaw area
- Limited movement in the jaw
- Jaws getting stuck in the open or closed position
- A tired feeling in the face or jaw
- Swelling around the jaw
- Difficulty chewing and eating
TMJ/ TMD Treatment
If you think that you may be suffering from pain associated with TMD /TMJ , Dr. Cliff Comptom has experience reviewing patient cases and diagnosis of the disorder. Once you have been diagnosed with the disorder, seeking treatment is vital for your health. There are a variety of treatments available for patients with TMD from home remedies to surgery. Our staff and dentists will work with you to find the best treatment for your unique case.
We offer custom designed night guards that work to alleviate the pain and control the symptoms of TMD. If you are interested in receiving diagnosis or treatment of TMD, visit Dr. Cliff Compton’s practice or call us today at (704) 786-8825 for TMJ treatment in Concord, NC.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia
