Exceptional Dentistry Blog

Proper Position: Does My Posture Impact TMJ?

May 11, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 5:35 pm
Woman working at desk rubbing neck with eyes closed in pain

Have you noticed that you’re having more headaches than usual and your jaw feels stiff or sore? If so, you may have developed TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder). If the sliding-disc joints that anchor your jawbone to your skull are misaligned or overworked, they can become painfully inflamed.

There are several potential treatments available, including massage therapy, an oral appliance to help relax your jaw, BOTOX injections, and others. However, did you know that correcting your posture can also help alleviate your symptoms? Continue reading to learn how!

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My Jaw Clicks and Pops. Should I Be Worried?

May 1, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 1:59 pm
Young woman clutching jaw in pain.

Have you ever opened your mouth and heard a popping or clicking sound coming from your jaw? While it might be easy to ignore, a popping jaw can sometimes be a sign of an underlying issue. Jaw popping or clicking is fairly common, and for many people, it’s harmless. But in some cases, it may be a symptom of a condition that needs professional attention. So, should you be worried if your jaw pops or clicks? Let’s explore the possible causes and when to seek help.

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How Your TMJ Disorder Could Be Causing Sleep Apnea

April 18, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 4:59 pm
Woman rubbing jaw in pain while lying in bed

TMJ disorder is well-known for causing chronic pain in the jaw. However, the discomfort isn’t the only potential effect that the condition can have. Research has shown that TMJ disorder can potentially contribute to sleep problems – most notably sleep apnea. Before you get the treatment you need, it’s worth taking the time to learn more about how TMJ disorder and sleep apnea can be connected.

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My Ears Are Ringing — Is TMD to Blame?

April 8, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 3:31 pm
Grimacing woman experiencing tinnitus

As the years and decades pass, it is common for people to experience hearing difficulties. Quite a few people even have to deal with a persistent ringing in their ears, which is otherwise known as tinnitus. But did you know that tinnitus is not always related to hearing loss? It might indicate that you have TMJ disorder (TMD), a condition that afflicts the jaw joints. This blog post explores the connection between these issues.

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What Is TMJ Disorder & How Is It Treated?

March 11, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 8:39 pm
a 3D illustration demonstrating jaw pain

When most of us think about our oral health, our teeth and gums come to mind first – however, our jaws are just as important! Not only do they help to secure your teeth in place, but they also allow you to eat, speak, and smile your way through life. This is why as soon as an issue arises, like TMJ disorder, treatment is in your best interest. Continue reading to learn a little more about TMJ disorder, what causes it, and how your dentist might be able to help!

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A Closer Look at the Link Between TMJ Disorder and Arthritis

March 2, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 8:30 pm
a patient holding their jaw in pain

Have you been dealing with jaw pain recently, but haven’t the slightest clue as to what the cause might be? You’re far from alone – estimates indicated that anywhere from 5% to 12% of the general population experiences some form of TMJ disorder, or TMD. But did you know that sometimes, it’s linked to arthritis? Continue reading to learn more about the curious connection between jaw pain and arthritis, along with how your pain can be managed and your quality of life can be improved.

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I Have TMJ Disorder — Can Invisalign Fix It?

February 28, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 3:22 pm
Woman grimacing due to pain of TMJ disorder

Invisalign is popular for its aesthetic benefits. Indeed, it has the potential to correct misalignment and boost your confidence in your smile! But did you know that in some cases, its benefits go far beyond mere appearances? If you have been struggling with jaw pain and other symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD), Invisalign might be able to help you find long-term relief! This blog post explores how that may happen.

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The Dangers of Drowsy Driving

February 13, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 4:44 pm
A man yawning behind the wheel of a car

Falling asleep behind the wheel is extremely dangerous and can even be deadly. But what many people don’t realize is that operating a vehicle while sleep deprived can be just as dangerous, even if you’re still awake. Drowsy driving can cause similar mental impairment to drunk driving. In fact, studies have found that 24 hours of sleep deprivation affects your body the same way a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.10% does!

If you find yourself struggling to get a good night’s sleep, you could be suffering from a condition known as sleep apnea. Here’s how sleep apnea can cause dangerous sleep deprivation, and what you can do to finally get the rest you deserve.

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Clean Contraption: How to Maintain Your Oral Appliance

January 22, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 5:39 pm
Clear oral appliance with green hinge connector

Did you know that an estimated 30 million people in the United States suffer from obstructive sleep apnea? This occurs when your airways are blocked when you lay down at night, interrupting your circadian cycle. People with this disorder suffer from loud snoring, restlessness, excessive daytime exhaustion, and other issues.

Your sleep dentist can provide an oral appliance, like an occlusal splint, to reposition your jaw to prevent nighttime blockages. However, you must clean it correctly to prevent common problems, like gum disease or cavities, from developing. Continue reading to learn 3 hints for maintaining your dental device!

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Beginner Tips for Adjusting to Your Oral Appliance

January 16, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — bettersleepdent @ 6:00 pm
A woman sleeping

If you suffer from sleep apnea and have been prescribed a Vivos DNA Appliance for treatment, you’re likely to feel an overwhelming sense of relief. After all, in just 9 to 18 months, you could be experiencing improved sleep and better breathing at night. But sometimes, getting used to wearing a sleep device can be challenging. Here’s how to adjust to your new prosthetic so you can finally get the rest you deserve!

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