As 2024 wraps up, we take a moment to reflect on the significant progress made in understanding and treating Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. Throughout the year, our efforts have focused on enhancing patient care and exploring innovative treatments. This journey would not have been possible without the dedication of our team and the tremendous support of our patients. THANK YOU!

We have witnessed firsthand the remarkable resilience and determination of individuals facing TMJ challenges. Their stories have not only inspired us but have also driven us to push the boundaries of what is possible in TMJ therapy. The advancements made this year have provided new hope for those dealing with chronic pain and dysfunction associated with TMJ disorders.

One of the highlights of 2024 has been the introduction of new treatment methods that show great promise in managing TMJ symptoms. From manual therapy techniques (Neubie, Laser or Massage) to minimally invasive procedures like arthrocentesis and arthroscopy. The field has seen a range of developments aimed at improving patient outcomes. These treatments have offered many patients significant relief and have contributed to a better understanding of the complexities involved in TMJ disorders.

We have seen a rise in collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, researchers and patients, which has led to more personalized treatment plans and improved patient education. These partnerships have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of TMJ disorders and tailoring therapies to meet individual needs.

Community involvement has played a crucial role in our mission this year. Through workshops, informational sessions and support groups, we have fostered a sense of community among patients, enabling them to share their experiences and support one another. These initiatives have been invaluable in raising awareness about TMJ disorders and in offering practical strategies for coping with the conditions. Looking back, it is clear that 2024 has been a year of significant progress and growth in the field of TMJ disorders. The dedication of our patients and the tireless efforts of our team have paved the way for a brighter future in TMJ care.

Breakthroughs in TMJ Therapy

This past year has brought about some new ideas in appliance therapy for TMJ disorders. I have been noticing an increase in allergies these past few years–and mostly to metals like nickel–so my lab and I have developed some new appliances that work better than anything we have had in the past.

Our office recently acquired the fantastic Fotona laser. This deep-tissue laser treatment reduces inflammation and stimulates the cells in your body to heal. It feels wonderful–soothing, calming and just plain ‘delicious’ as some of our patients have told us. For patients with obstructive sleep apnea, I can use the Fotona laser to reduce the size of a thick tongue and tighten the palate for better breathing. This is in lieu of PPP (Palatal Pharyngeal Plasty) surgery that has to be repeated every few years. I think it is infinitely easier, less expensive, far less painful (little to no pain with our laser) and therefore makes more sense than having surgery.

We also have the Biolase which is used in conjunction with massage therapy. My assistant Ruth is now here more days than ever due to the increased demand for laser and massage at the same time. If you need a break from day-to-day stress, see Ruth and experience what laser massage can do.  This treatment calms the tension in the muscles around the jaw, face, neck and shoulder. This procedure of identifying trigger points helps relieve the symptoms associated with TMD. As Ruth massages the masseter (jaw), sternocleidomastoid (front of the neck) or temporal muscles, relief comes to the patient experiencing symptoms like headaches, earaches, neck or facial pain or simply relieving pressure on the TM joints.

This year brought other developments in TMJ therapy. One of the more noteworthy breakthroughs is manual therapy. This approach involves physical therapists using their hands to stretch the soft tissues and muscles around the joint, effectively improving function and relieving pain.

Another promising technique is arthrocentesis, a procedure where fluid is injected into the TMJ to remove scar-like tissue and inflammatory substances. This method has shown positive effects in pain relief and improving mouth opening, although these benefits might be short-lived.

Arthroscopy continues to be a valuable tool for TMJ treatment It involves inserting an instrument with a tiny video camera into the jaw joint to visualize the area and remove adhesions or reposition the joint’s disc. This procedure has been moderately successful in improving pain and function.

Another innovative option explored this year is prolotherapy. This involves injecting a solution into the TMJ area to stimulate the body’s natural repair mechanisms. Prolotherapy shows promise, particularly in cases where the joint is dislocated or exhibits hypermobility. However, more research is needed due to the limited number of studies available.

Although we can offer both arthroscopy and arthrocentesis, neither of these techniques will actually fix the underlying problem; a displaced disc. The oral surgeon who performs this procedure is always very clear that these techniques are used to help alleviate discomfort and attempt to improve the situation. These techniques basically help a patient buy time and see if they can put off a full TMJ surgical procedure.

Emerging therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are also gaining attention. PRP involves using a patient’s own blood components to promote healing in the TMJ area. This treatment aims to reduce inflammation and encourage tissue regeneration, offering a potential new avenue for those who have not found relief through other methods. Again, the surgeon would explain that this will not likely fix the displaced articular disc, but if it helps to heal some of the joints, it might be worthwhile and easier than surgery.

Of course, the someday-to-be-famous ALF appliance is helping both adults and children. For each patient, this lightweight wire helps with realigning the cranium avoiding unnecessary strains. For the patient in need of arch development, this is a great alternative to a palatal expander and for pre-orthodontic needs, reducing their time in braces. By re-aligning the jaws in a very natural and careful fashion, many children need far less time in orthodontics. The additional benefit goes along myofunctional habits like a tongue thrust or resting with lips apart.

And speaking of orthodontics, we have come a long long way since the time of ugly metal braces. In almost every case, I can use clear aligners to erupt the teeth gently, slowly and carefully to the proper height to support the jaw joints after we determine the correct height needed. It took quite a while for the Spark company to understand what I needed to have done, but they finally understand and can produce aligners that do what is needed!

Another area of interest is the application of botulinum toxin (BOTOX®) injections. Botox is traditionally known for cosmetic uses, but it has been found to alleviate TMJ symptoms by relaxing overactive muscles around the joint. I am a certified provider of Botox injections. I have found that using this treatment provides good relief to tense muscles. Again, it is only temporary for most lasting up to six to eight months.

Stories and Experiences from Our Patients

Throughout 2024, we have had the privilege of witnessing the incredible journeys of many of our patients. Their stories reflect not only the progress in TMJ treatment but also the unwavering spirit and determination they exhibit in their recovery process.

One such story is of Cynthia, who had been grappling with chronic TMJ pain for several years. She finally found relief through a combination of manual therapy and lifestyle modifications. Sarah’s commitment to adhering to her treatment plan and maintaining a positive outlook was key to her progress. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how patient involvement can significantly influence outcomes.

Another remarkable case is John, who underwent a plication surgery procedure to address his TMJ dysfunction. Despite initial challenges and setbacks, John’s perseverance and dedication to his recovery routine led to significant improvements in his functionality and overall quality of life. His story underscores the importance of patient resilience in the face of adversity.

We also had the honor of supporting Maria, who explored prolotherapy as a treatment option. Initially skeptical, Maria decided to give it a try after discussing the potential benefits and limited research with her healthcare team. Her willingness to explore new avenues of treatment resulted in noticeable pain relief and improved joint stability, showcasing the potential of emerging therapies in TMJ management. The prolotherapy provided some degree of relief without needing TMJ surgery

I like to explain to each of our patients that THEY need to be their own advocate for their course of treatment. Sure, this treatment addresses the damaged disc/joint system but in so many cases there is already nerve and muscular damage. You need to try things like acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, osteopathy and many other treatments to provide a long-term approach to managing your health.

Each patient’s journey is unique, and their experiences highlight the varied approaches to managing TMJ disorders. For example, Emily, a young professional, found that a combination of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and stress management techniques significantly reduced her symptoms. Her proactive approach to integrating different treatments demonstrated the value of personalized care plans.

The resilience and determination of our patients continue to inspire us. Their willingness to engage in their treatment plans and try new methods has been crucial in their journey towards better health. We are grateful for their trust and partnership, which drive us to continually improve and innovate in the field of TMJ disorders.

Innovations and Research

Research conducted in 2024 has illuminated the intricate nature of TMJ disorders. Studies indicate that a combination of genetic factors, psychological stressors and pain perception can influence the onset and persistence of TMJ disorders. This comprehensive approach has helped in better understanding the multifactorial aspects of the condition, paving the way for more effective treatment plans.

Additionally, research has dispelled several myths surrounding TMJ disorders. The small amount of research, and the teaching in dental schools, tell us that a bad bite or orthodontics does not cause TMJ disorders. Here is the reference to such thinking.

For those of us who actually treat TMJ disorders, we are well aware that if the bite is not correct and does not support the TM joints, this will indeed cause the articular discs to be displaced, and then pain will happen. As part of the treatment protocol, the patient will wear an orthotic to ‘open’ the bite taller, and then later on do three-dimensional orthodontics to erupt the teeth to better support the condyle/disc system within the jaw bone socket. Therefore, a bad bite and/or regular orthodontics can indeed lead to TMJ disorder.

Innovative technologies have also emerged, providing new avenues for treatment and management. Virtual reality tools are being developed to assist in pain management and rehabilitation exercises. These tools offer patients immersive environments where they can perform guided exercises designed to improve TMJ function. The use of virtual reality in TMJ care promises to make therapy more engaging and effective for patients.

AI-driven diagnostic methods are another area of significant progress. These advanced systems can analyze a multitude of patient data, including imaging and clinical history, to provide more precise diagnoses. The integration of AI into diagnostic processes helps in identifying subtle patterns that might be missed by traditional methods, ensuring a more accurate assessment of TMJ disorders.

In addition to technological advancements, there has been an increased focus on integrative approaches to treatment. This involves combining traditional medical treatments with alternative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga and mindfulness. Such integrative care approaches aim to address the physical, psychological and emotional aspects of TMJ disorders, offering a more holistic treatment plan tailored to individual patient needs.

The strides made in 2024 have been possible due to collaborative efforts between researchers, clinicians and patients. Continuous research and innovation are essential for discovering new insights and developing more effective treatments for TMJ disorders.

Looking Forward to 2025

In 2025, we foresee promising advancements in the field of TMJ disorders that will enhance both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnostic processes is expected to refine the accuracy and speed of TMJ disorder diagnoses. AI can analyze patient data more comprehensively, offering personalized insights that aid in creating tailored treatment plans.

Additionally, virtual reality (VR) tools are likely to become more prevalent in TMJ therapy. These tools provide immersive environments for patients to engage in rehabilitation exercises, making the treatment process more interactive and effective. By incorporating VR, we can offer patients a unique way to manage their symptoms and improve joint function.

The focus on integrative care will likely intensify, with a blend of traditional and alternative therapies becoming a standard approach. This holistic method addresses not only the physical symptoms but also the psychological and emotional aspects of TMJ disorders. Techniques such as acupuncture, yoga and mindfulness will be integrated with conventional treatments, providing a well-rounded care plan that caters to individual needs.

Research into emerging therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and prolotherapy, is expected to yield more definitive results. These treatments show potential to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the TMJ area. As more studies are conducted, we anticipate clearer guidelines on their efficacy and broader adoption in clinical practice.

Community engagement will become part of our efforts in the near future. We plan to create outreach programs, workshops, support groups, informational sessions and other events to increase awareness of TMJ disorder–will continue to be a cornerstone of our efforts. We plan to expand our outreach programs, offering more workshops, informational sessions and support groups. These initiatives will aim to educate, support and empower patients and their families

Our collaborations with local organizations will be strengthened to raise public awareness about TMJ disorders. By hosting more public events and awareness campaigns, we aim to reach a larger audience and reduce the stigma associated with these conditions.

In essence, 2025 holds the promise of significant progress in TMJ care, driven by technological innovations, integrative therapies and community involvement. Our commitment to advancing the quality of care and supporting our patients remains steadfast, and we look forward to another great year of helping people navigate and overcome TMJ disorders.

At Sleep & TMJ Therapy,  Dr. Jeffrey Brown and our team are here to help you get the relief you need from TMJ issues in Falls Church, Virginia. Please call our office at 703-821-1103 to learn more or schedule a visit.

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Unmasking the Culprit: What Is Sleep Apnea?

Gather ’round, health enthusiasts and nocturnal adventurers, for a tale most troubling yet all too common. Our villain tonight is not one of folklore, but a foe that lurks in the shadows of our bedrooms: sleep apnea. This dastardly disruptor of dreams is no mere snorer’s complaint but a bona fide breathing brouhaha that turns rest into a restless endeavor.

In the realm of slumber, sleep apnea is the thief that steals your breath away—literally. Imagine, if you will, your body taking a pause on breathing, not just once, but perhaps hundreds of times throughout the night. These pauses are not dramatic pauses for effect but rather, perilous periods where oxygen and your body part ways, leaving you gasping and grappling for air.  This happens because the muscles in the back of the throat relax and cause the airway to narrow or close as you are breathing. The brain kicks in and briefly rouses you causing you to wake up, snort, choke or make gasping sounds. These reactions are so quick you may not remember. The effects create the inability to reach a restful state causing you to be tired during the day.

There are three known accomplices in this nighttime heist: obstructive, central and complex sleep apnea syndromes. The most notorious of the trio, obstructive sleep apnea, plays its hand when the muscles at the back of your throat decide to take an ill-timed siesta, collapsing and blocking the very airways they’re supposed to protect. Central sleep apnea, the more insidious cousin, sees the brain forgetting its lines, failing to signal the muscles to breathe. Then, in a twist of fate, complex sleep apnea syndrome enters, blending the characteristics of its kin, proving that sometimes, the whole is indeed more menacing than the sum of its parts.

So, there you have it, a peek behind the curtain at the antagonist of our nighttime narratives. Sleep apnea, in all its guises, waits in the wings, ready to turn your sleep into an unintended adventure.

The Ripple Effect: How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Health

Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for a journey into the shadowy impacts of sleep apnea on your health. This insidious condition does more than just pilfer your Z’s; it embarks on a nefarious quest to undermine your well-being, one breath at a time. Think of it as the health equivalent of a computer virus, silently corrupting your system while you’re none the wiser.

Imagine, if you will, your body as a bustling city. Sleep apnea is the unexpected traffic jam causing chaos on the roads, leading to a domino effect of problems citywide: high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.  These are the pileups on the freeway, slowing down emergency services and causing widespread distress. Diabetes? Consider the power outage at the traffic lights, throwing crossroads into disarray. Depression sneaks in like the creeping fog, clouding judgment and dampening spirits.

Sleep apnea directly correlates with higher risks of cardiovascular disease. The National Health Institute found high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, heart attack and stroke can occur if not addressed. In addition, this increases the risk of heart rhythm problems known as arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can lower your blood pressure. Your poor little heart just can’t pump enough oxygenated blood to the brain and becomes overworked.  This is why you are tired.

But wait, there’s more. The Mayo Clinic found risk factors that increase this development to be: excessive weight, older age, having a narrow airway, hypertension, chronic nasal congestion, smoking, diabetes, family history and asthma.  This condition doesn’t stop at the metaphorical city limits. It extends its reach to the jaw, stirring up trouble in the form of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Sleep apnea often causes the body to naturally push the jaw forward. This motion of the jaw moving back and forth causes stress and tension within the masseters. This in turn increases TMJ problems. Another aspect let’s not forget is inflammation, the silent alarm that signals something is amiss in the body. Together, they form a formidable gang, wreaking havoc and leaving a trail of health woes in their wake.

In the grand scheme of things, sleep apnea is not just a nighttime nuisance but a health hazard with far-reaching consequences. The key to thwarting this villain lies in recognizing its presence and taking action. Because in the battle for your health, knowledge and intervention are your greatest allies.

Knight in Shining Armor: Treatments That Can Help

Fear not weary sleepers, for our tale of nocturnal nuisance, need not end in despair. The kingdom of sleep science offers a veritable armory of solutions to combat the villainous sleep apnea, each weapon more innovative than the last. Leading the cavalry charge against this nightly adversary is my team and I. We start with a CBCT X-ray and an at-home sleep test. I always recommend this to my patients. The first tool is an X-ray. This diagnostic tool allows us to measure the airflow and see the skull highlighting the neck and jaw area. The sleep test (insurance may require an in-lab) gives us the AHI (Apnea Hypopnea Index). If severe (AHI ≥ 30 per hour) the knight in shining armor is the CPAP machine delivering a constant airstream to keep the pathways of breath open. For those with minimal (AHI < 5 per hour), mild (AHI  ≥ 5, but < 15  per hour), or moderate (AHI ≥ 15, but < 30) the knight is an oral sleep appliance. This appliance pushes the jaw forward opening the airway. This is a great option for those who prefer their armor a bit less conspicuous. Think of it as a dental retainer with a PhD in airflow management.

Lastly, let’s not forget the foot soldiers in our battle for uninterrupted slumber: lifestyle changes. Though they may not carry the immediate clout of their mechanical and surgical counterparts, their contributions to the war effort are invaluable, often preventing the enemy from gaining ground in the first place. Posture is a major player in breathing — be aware of keeping your neck and head straight at all times and you will breathe better. It’s that simple. Weight loss could also be a benefit.

Armed with these interventions, sleep apnea’s days of unchecked tyranny are numbered. Choose your weapons wisely, consult with the wise wizards (also known as sleep specialists), and prepare to reclaim the night.

Breathing Easier: Tips for Improving Nighttime Breathing

Ah, the quest for serene slumbers and untroubled breathing! For those embarking on this noble journey, fear not, for there are strategies aplenty to enhance your nocturnal respiration. First and foremost, let’s talk about your sleeping posture. Much like choosing the right dance partner, selecting the side-lying position over the back or stomach can lead to a more harmonious relationship with your airway. Imagine your body as a flute; when positioned correctly, the music (or in this case, air) flows freely.

Next, consider the siren’s call of the evening libation. While tempting, alcohol and sedatives are akin to inviting a bull into the china shop of your throat muscles; they relax them just a tad too much, leading to an increased chance of obstruction. Opt instead for a soothing herbal tea, which plays more nicely with your body’s internal orchestra.

And in the realm of the corporeal kingdom, maintaining a fortress at a healthy weight acts as a formidable defense against the siege of sleep apnea. Excess weight can add pressure on the throat, narrowing the airway’s halls, and inviting trouble to your nightly repose. Did you know that your tongue can harbor fat? Well, it can, and if it does this will actually block your airway.

Transform your bedroom into a haven for slumber with a few lifestyle tweaks that could rival any fairy tale. If you’ve ever envied Sleeping Beauty for her effortless dozing, worry not. Your castle awaits, no wicked fairy required. First, banish the blue light brigade. Yes, your kingdom of screens – smartphones, tablets, laptops – emits a glow that could keep even the sleepiest heads wide awake. Swap out scrolling for a book (the kind with actual pages) and watch your eyelids grow heavy with the promise of dreams.

Next, create a bedtime ritual more sacred than the royal coronation. A warm bath, some gentle yoga or a few minutes of meditation can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Think of it as lowering the drawbridge and preparing the castle for nightfall.

Temperature plays a court jester in your quest for quality sleep, too. Keep your sleeping quarters cool, akin to a crisp, autumn evening in the enchanted forest. Your body’s internal thermostat will thank you, offering deeper sleep as tribute.

Lastly, for the realm’s finest slumber, consistency is key. Keep to a sleep schedule as diligently as a knight adheres to his quest. Hitting the hay and rising with the sun at the same times daily sets your internal clock to ‘serene’, paving the way for restorative rest.

By implementing these strategies, not only do you stand a better chance at defeating the nefarious sleep apnea, but you also set the stage for a night where dreams can indeed come true, free of unwanted interruptions.

The Dream Team: When to Seek Professional Help

Should the specter of sleep apnea start haunting your slumbers, it’s time to call in the big guns: your healthcare dream team. We are seasoned professionals, equipped with their arsenal of sleep studies and diagnostic tools, and stand ready to dive deep into the mysteries of your nocturnal disturbances. A sleep study, whether it’s an epic adventure in a high-tech lab or a solo quest at home, is the key to unlocking the secrets of your sleep patterns. It’s like having your own personal detective agency, investigating the who, what, when and why of your interrupted breathing. With this report, our team can tailor a battle strategy uniquely suited to vanquish your sleep apnea, transforming restless nights into peaceful slumber. Remember, in the saga of sleep, you’re the hero, and it’s perfectly okay to call for reinforcements. After all, even superheroes work best with a little help from their friends.

Dr. Jeffrey Brown, and the rest of our team at Sleep & TMJ Therapy are here to help you get a good night’s sleep with sleep apnea treatments in Falls Church, Virginia. Please call our office at 703-821-1103 to learn more!

The post Sleep Apnea: The Unsung Villain in Your Nighttime Story first appeared on Sleep & TMJ Therapy.

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of maintaining healthy joints in battling TMJ disorder among seniors, or anyone for that matter. I will focus on how this condition can affect one’s health, sleep, and overall quality of life, as well as treatment options available for managing TMJ disorder.

When it comes to being a senior there seem to be so many more things to be concerned about than when we were younger. At any stage, the temporomandibular joint’s functionality is essential for basic yet vital activities including eating, speaking and expressing emotions through facial movements. However, this critical joint can become compromised due to a history of dental procedures, tooth loss increasing stress on the TMJ, habitual clenching or grinding of teeth (bruxism), or simply the natural aging process, which can lead to degeneration of the joint’s cartilage.

Symptoms in seniors may manifest differently than in younger individuals, often characterized by more pronounced pain, limited jaw mobility, and even changes in the fit of dental appliances. In addition, older adults might experience headaches, earaches and increased sensitivity in the facial muscles, all of which can significantly impact their daily lives. The role of dental health becomes increasingly important in diagnosing and managing TMJ disorder in this age group.

Well folks, with the regular checkups with all those doctors, let’s be sure to make one of those doctors your TMJ specialist! A pivotal tool in evaluating the health of these joints is the CBCT X-ray, a diagnostic approach that offers comprehensive insights into the condition of the jaw joint, allowing for targeted interventions. The other diagnostic tool is an MRI. This allows the specialist to see all the soft tissue from the neck up.

For example: If the MRI shows slipped and or displaced discs in the TM joints, it would be prudent to try and fix the problem before it gets worse. Did you know that those slipped discs correlate to many other health problems? Well, they do!  The slipped discs directly correlate to SDB (Sleep Disordered Breathing)  along with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Slipped discs also correlate with whole-body pain because the inflamed joints affect your entire body. Bottom line: It’s good to talk to your TMJ specialist! The integrity and health of joints are indispensable and contribute significantly to the overall resilience against conditions mitigating inflammation and aiding in the smooth operation of the temporomandibular joint.

In regards to the CBCT X-ray, this is a very valuable bit of a data gold mine. The X-ray provides a view at the top of the jaw bones (the condyles) to determine if they are eroding, flattened, damaged, too high in the socket and so many other issues. If that condyle is not where it should be, it adds to your list of chronic inflammation sources. The condyle will rub around in the socket and can actually further displace an already out-of-place disc. This just makes the situation worse.

The frontal view of your skull is quite critical in determining the symmetry of the cranial bones. As we get older, we tend to lose our good posture, i.e. we hunch more.  So, if the cranial bones are out of alignment like we see in so many people, hunching will just make things worse as we age, and this leads to more head and neck pain. More hunching with a distorted skull means more pain as we get older. It’s a simple thing and by spotting the cranial distortions earlier in life, you can use something like the ALF appliance to help reduce the asymmetry for a better future. Less pain makes for better sleep and a happier life.

Another aspect of the CBCT is the view of the cervical spine (the side view of the neck). With this view, we can see AND measure the distances between C-1 and C-2, and from C-1 to C-0 (occiput). This is the section of the spine in the neck. Both these distances need to be around 6mm for good health. If they are not, this means the cervical spine is compressed. It’s good to know this at a younger age so you can work on it with your physical therapist, wear a proper oral appliance and get better before you get too much older.

The MRI will show how the disc acts when opening and closing. Because this diagnostic tool shows all soft tissue, the specialist can see if there is any evidence of hemorrhagic within the brain around the TM joints.  The other great piece of information is the measurement of the range of motion and angulation of the joints. This is very valuable information to help create a good treatment plan. Fostering healthy joints involves a multifaceted approach to working with your other doctors and or therapist. The goal is to relax and strengthen the muscles surrounding the jaw and advocate for proper position.

Concluding our exploration of TMJ disorder and its impact on senior health, it’s evident that maintaining joint health is a cornerstone of mitigating this condition’s effects. Seniors are encouraged to take a holistic approach to their well-being, integrating physical, nutritional and therapeutic strategies to bolster joint health and manage TMJ symptoms effectively.

Furthermore, staying informed about the latest in TMJ management and maintaining open communication with your healthcare providers are key steps in navigating this condition successfully. It only makes sense. So, pay attention to your TM joints and stay healthier later in life! This proactive stance on joint health is instrumental in the broader spectrum of TMJ management, ensuring that seniors are equipped with the strategies necessary for mitigating the condition’s effects and enhancing their overall well-being.

Call To Learn More

If you have any questions or concerns, we invite you to call our dedicated team in Falls Church, Virginia and speak with a member of our team. We are also happy to schedule a visit with Dr. Jeffrey, Brown. Just call 703-821-1103 today!

Read Dr. Brown’s article in Your Health Magazine.

The post The Importance of Healthy Joints in Battling TMJ Disorder Among Seniors first appeared on Sleep & TMJ Therapy.

MFT refers to Myofunctional Therapy. This means that if you can learn how to stretch your tongue and strengthen the muscles of the face, then as you get a bit older these muscle groups will stay tauter and less droopy over time. This equates to less airway obstruction. Less fat tissue drooping into your throat means the airway will function better and your AHI (Apnea Hypopnea Index) can be lowered. While treating airway disorders, a sleep apnea test is usually performed. The AHI number will be determined. An AHI of lower than 5 is usually a good number, but when it creeps up to 10 and above, this means sleep apnea could be present. If sleep apnea is present, it needs to be dealt with.  Sleep apnea affects more than just your sleep.  Daytime drowsiness can lead to difficulty concentrating and irritability.

Before discussing MFT further, there are more abbreviations to understand.  The term OSA refers to Obstructive Sleep Apnea. OSA just means that you have sleep apnea, and the AHI is relatively high. It is always important to know your numbers regarding OSA and know why a higher number is a bad sign. So do your sleep test, determine what the AHI number is, and you will know how bad the OSA is. This will help you understand how to fix the problem and the severity of your sleep apnea.

Many people would help their own health if they exercised regularly. Imagine if you exercise your tongue, your cheeks, your neck, your forehead; this would allow all the muscles of the head and neck to work better and not be so flaccid. As we get older, all these muscles simply become saggier. The less-tone flabby muscles in the throat begin to close the throat. Did you know that your tongue can harbor tremendous amounts of fat tissue? This tissue is very difficult to get rid of because practically no one exercises the tongue the way it should!

The real problem with MFT, as mentioned previously, is that even when you really should do the exercises, most do not. They are too busy, don’t really care, or think it’s kind of a silly thing. But, when they learn that the muscular system of the throat is just like working the biceps, the traps, the thighs, they more or less ‘get it.’

Learn about MFT and how it might help you because it will help you stay healthier longer.  If you’d like a more natural approach to helping reduce your OSA, this is worth looking into!  There are online resources to help you learn where to look.

The post How MFT Can Help AHI, OSA, & Other Abbreviations first appeared on Sleep & TMJ Therapy.