Trouble Breathing
For Patients
Understanding Breathing Trouble with TMJ
We specialize in addressing the interconnected issues of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and their potential effects on your overall health, including breathing troubles. Our dedicated team is here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
Breathing difficulties can arise from a variety of causes, including nasal obstructions, allergies, or underlying medical conditions. However, they may also be closely related to TMJ disorders. The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to your skull, and dysfunction in this area can affect the alignment and function of the surrounding muscles and airway structures, leading to breathing challenges.
When the TMJ is not functioning properly, it can contribute to issues such as obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, or restricted airflow. The muscles of the jaw, neck, and face work together to support an open and unobstructed airway. Any imbalance or tension in these muscles can lead to airway narrowing, making it difficult to breathe comfortably, especially during sleep.
Symptoms of TMJ-Related Breathing Trouble
If you are experiencing breathing problems that may be related to TMJ dysfunction, you might notice the following symptoms:
- Snoring or sleep apnea: TMJ issues can affect the alignment of the jaw and throat, contributing to obstructive breathing patterns.
- Feeling short of breath: Difficulty breathing deeply or comfortably may occur, particularly when lying down.
- Jaw pain or clicking: Discomfort in the jaw or a clicking/popping sound when moving the jaw can indicate TMJ dysfunction.
- Fatigue or daytime drowsiness: Poor breathing during sleep often results in low energy levels and difficulty staying alert.
- Frequent headaches: Headaches or migraines can accompany TMJ dysfunction, further complicating breathing issues.
How Our Services Can Help With Your Breathing and Airway
We understand the complexities of TMJ disorders and how they can affect your breathing and overall health. Our experienced practitioners take a comprehensive and holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment, focusing on addressing the root cause of your breathing trouble.
We conduct thorough evaluations to determine how TMJ dysfunction may be impacting your airway and breathing. From custom oral appliances designed to realign the jaw and open the airway to therapies that relieve jaw tension, we tailor treatments to your specific needs. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities, and we work closely with you every step of the way to help you achieve lasting relief.
Don’t let breathing troubles hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Contact the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Montana today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward easier, healthier breathing.

Learn what our patients have to say
about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Montana
Rae Tcherneshoff2020-11-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My treatment has been nothing short of life changing. I have struggled with TMJ issues for about 10 years and it got much worse in the last year. After treatment here, I can now chew on both sides of my mouth, open my jaw all the way, no more clicking or popping, and finally no pain or ringing ears. I was skeptical at first, but Dr. VanDkye REALLY knows what she’s talking about and all the women in the office are so helpful! Josie Gordon2019-08-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr VanDyke is so knowledgeable and well educated in Sleep Disorders. She is a wonderful, caring, compassionate person. The staff is so friendly and nice that I look forward to going to the office! They are an incredible group of women😇☀️😃 Cheri Waring2019-07-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I started with TMJ &Sleep Therapy Center in June this year. I was grinding teeth with mouth pieces made at the dentist offices that didn't help with my other issues. HEADACHES, not sleeping, jaw popping, pain in right ear, sinus issues. I was hoping only for help with headaches and sleep, and grinding. I recieved my more than ever expected. I sleep through the night, headache free, popping gone. Mouth pieces are so different than others I have had made. They truly gave me my life back. Thank you! Norman G.2019-07-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff is wonderful, and so knowledgeable. My wife had been suffering for a long time with jaw pain, none of the medical doctors were able to help her. Finally, after treatment she has had no more pain and life is good! Lenora Snider2019-06-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful, knowledgeable, friendly. Made sure you understand everything that you have discussed .