Oral appliance therapy can be used for the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder (TMD) and sleep apnea. If you are using an oral appliance, it is important to understand that there might be side effects. By understanding the side effects, you can pay attention to your care and take steps toward improving the outcome.
As you know, many treatments come with their own set of side effects and so does oral appliance therapy. However, it doesn’t mean you should avoid treatment or stop completely. This just means the more you know, the better. It can help you continue treatment and overcome the short term side effects often associated with treatment. Here are some of the side effects you might encounter and how to overcome them for successful treatment.
Pay attention to these side effects
While many of these side effects are only short term, it is important to understand what might occur to improve your treatment outcome. Some of the possible side effects of oral appliance therapy include:
- Excessive salivation.
- Dry mouth.
- Tooth and jaw discomfort.
- Temporary bite changes.
Some people might also run the risk of developing further complications with oral appliance therapy. But when this occurs, it is important to visit Dr. Sara at our North Scottsdale office to readjust and alter your treatment. Complications associated with oral appliance therapy during treatment of TMD or sleep apnea might include additional jaw pain or permanent changes to your bite.
It is important to pay attention to how you are feeling during your treatment process so that Dr. Sara can properly manage and continue to improve your symptoms. And remember, it is important that you do not ignore any complications you might be experiencing. Instead, contact Dr. Sara at our North Scottsdale office for further guidance and information.