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Will sleep apnea cause temporomandibular disorders?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

After TMJ problem, I am not able to sleep due to sleep apnea. I also have breathlessness after jaw lock.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Mousam Chattopadhyay

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mousam Chattopadhyay is a Dental Surgeon with expertise in restorative dentistry, root canal treatment, cosmetic procedures, and minor oral surgeries. He is skilled in smile designing, dental implants, and preventive dental care for patients of all age groups. Dr. Chattopadhyay is committed to providing precise, pain-free, and patient-focused care, ensuring optimal oral health, functional restoration, and confident smiles through personalized treatment plans.    

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query. Sleep apnea is associated with chronic pain disorders, including jaw pain like TMD (temporomandibular disorders). If it hurts to open and close your mouth, you may have these conditions.

Patients with sleep apnea are generally mouth breathers, they are at higher risk of cavities. As a specialist, I can understand the pain or discomfort you have been through.

There are some steps to follow, be positive and determined for these.

Self caring.

Relaxatiom techniques to lower the stress level such as exercise, yoga, and meditation.

Physiotherapy.

Your local dentist can help by providing a splint, prosthodontic mouth guard, to keep your teeth slightly apart.

You can take tablet Zerodol TH 8 (Aceclofenac and Thiocolchicoside) OD one tablet OD for five days, capsule Pan D (Pantoprazole) one capsule once before meal for 10 days, Betadine mouthwash gargle in lukewarm water two or three times a day.

Use moist heat or cold packs.

Prefer soft diet.

Do not rest you chin over your hand.

Actually as you have mentioned sleep apnea, this medication will also help with it. I need to confirm the medicines as you have not shared the age and occupation, this medication must be taken at night as it causes dizzness, and driving is not advice.

Note: These medication are used for your TMJ issue but both of them has a side effect of dizzines, so alchohol or driving is not adviced. It is adviced to take the medication after dinner.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At June 29, 2020
Reviewed At June 30, 2026

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mousam Chattopadhyay is a Dental Surgeon with expertise in restorative dentistry, root canal treatment, cosmetic procedures, and minor oral surgeries. He is skilled in smile designing, dental implants, and preventive dental care for patients of all age groups. Dr. Chattopadhyay is committed to providing precise, pain-free, and patient-focused care, ensuring optimal oral health, functional restoration, and confident smiles through personalized treatment plans.    

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mousam Chattopadhyay is a Dental Surgeon with expertise in restorative dentistry, root canal treatment, cosmetic procedures, and minor oral surgeries. He is skilled in smile designing, dental implants, and preventive dental care for patients of all age groups. Dr. Chattopadhyay is committed to providing precise, pain-free, and patient-focused care, ensuring optimal oral health, functional restoration, and confident smiles through personalized treatment plans.    

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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