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Sleep and jaw disorders in Port Macquarie
Snoring, sleep apnoea, grinding and jaw joint problems are often linked. Dr Rourke has a special interest in them, and uses oral appliances made to an individual prescription.
- Splints made to fit you
- Works alongside your GP or sleep physician
- Every fee quoted first
How they’re linked
When you sleep, the muscles of your throat and jaw relax. In some people the lower jaw and tongue fall back and narrow the airway, which causes snoring and, in obstructive sleep apnoea, pauses in breathing. Clenching and grinding are also more common in people whose breathing is disturbed at night, and they strain the jaw joints.
Signs to mention at your visit
- Loud snoring, or a partner who notices you stop breathing
- Waking tired, with a headache or a dry mouth
- A sore or clicking jaw in the morning
- Teeth worn flat from grinding
Where a dentist fits in
Sleep apnoea is diagnosed with a sleep study, arranged through your GP or a sleep physician. If an oral appliance suits you, Dr Rourke makes one to the prescription. A mandibular advancement splint holds the lower jaw slightly forward to keep the airway open, and an occlusal splint protects the teeth and joints from grinding. Each is made from moulds of your teeth and adjusted until it’s comfortable.
Follow-up
Splints are checked and adjusted over the first few weeks, and your sleep physician may repeat the sleep study to see how well the appliance is working.
This is general information. Dr Rourke will tell you what suits your own teeth at your appointment.