Discovering the Best Sleep Position for TMJ Patients
Sleep is such an important process that’s crucial for overall health. Patients unable to get proper sleep are always impacted physically and mentally, leading to significant health issues. For TMD/TMJ patients, sleep can definitely seem like a hurdle in itself. The wrong position can exacerbate TMD symptoms, making it important to find a comfortable, proper position for you. Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center is here to work with you and provide the support you need to achieve better sleep.
Sleeping Tips for TMD Suffers
For patients suffering from TMJ conditions and pain, it is vital to understand how important the right neck and head support is. Investing in proper pillows that give you this support can alleviate the tension and overcompensation of your facial and neck muscles. Make sure to prioritize support– some of the softer, flatter pillows may be your personal preference, but finding a moderate to high support pillow can make all the difference. Discovering a sleep position that doesn’t strain your head or neck in any way is also crucial. Finding sleep positions that don’t promote teeth grinding or jaw clenching is also ideal– if these are issues you suffer from during your sleep, please communicate that to your TMJ specialist. They can provide custom oral appliances for you to wear at night that can help with these conditions.
Sleep Positions That Help Alleviate TMJ Pain
Sleeping on your stomach is the worst position for TMD sufferers. This is due to improper spine alignment as well as stress placed on your jaw. The stomach position also increases your risk for jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Laying on your side with a hand under your pillow can also exacerbate the symptoms of TMD. This damaging sleep position creates a misalignment for your head and neck, making TMJ pain very likely. The best sleep position for TMD is sleeping on your back in order to keep your head and neck properly aligned. Sleeping on your back also lowers the risk of teeth clenching and jaw grinding. We’re here to provide comprehensive sleep support for our patients throughout Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Bloomington, Minnetonka, Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Burnsville, and Plymouth.
More About Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center
Dr. Michael Gallagher and our Eden Prairie Dentistry team are committed to providing exceptional care and empowering our patients with information about their dental health. If you have any questions about our services or would like to schedule an appointment, we invite you to give us a call at (952) 942-9600. The outstanding experience of our dental team, Dr. Gallagher, and the skills of our staff have helped us in successfully treating our patient’s oral problems. We’re always welcoming new patients throughout Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Bloomington, Minnetonka, Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Burnsville, Plymouth, Eagan, Richfield and surrounding areas. For more information, please contact us!
