TMJ & Sleep Apnea
Night guards, EMFACE and sleep apnea care for jaw pain, grinding and snoring, in Hilton Head & Bluffton.
Relief for Jaw Pain, Teeth Grinding and Sleep Apnea
Jaw pain, clenching, teeth grinding and loud snoring can all affect how well you sleep and how you feel during the day. At Ocean Dental on Hilton Head Island, we look at your jaw joints, teeth, bite and sleep symptoms together, and explain which treatment suits your situation.
We offer three treatments for patients from Hilton Head Island and Bluffton: a custom TMJ dental mouth guard for clenching and grinding, EMFACE TMJ treatment for the jaw muscles, and oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea.
Our TMJ & Sleep Apnea Treatments
Which Treatment Is Right for Me?
Jaw and sleep problems often overlap, and many patients recognize themselves in more than one of the lists below. Use them as a starting point; your dentist will confirm what is going on at your exam.
TMJ Dental Mouth Guard
Often the first step if you:
- wake up with a sore jaw, tight temples or headaches
- clench or grind your teeth, especially at night
- have been told by a partner that you grind in your sleep
- have worn, chipped or sensitive teeth
- hear clicking or popping when you open your mouth
What it involves: a guard made to fit your own teeth and bite, usually worn at night. It protects your teeth from grinding and can ease the load on your jaw joints and muscles. Learn more about the TMJ dental mouth guard
EMFACE TMJ Treatment
May be an option if you:
- have jaw muscles that feel tight or tired
- would like a non-invasive, needle-free treatment
- want to address the jaw muscles as well as protect your teeth
What it involves: a series of short sessions with applicators placed on the skin of the face. EMFACE is provided together with our sister practice, Ocean Aesthetic & Wellness, at the same address. Learn more about EMFACE TMJ treatment
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Worth asking about if you:
- snore loudly
- wake up gasping, or have been told that you stop breathing during sleep
- wake up tired, with a dry mouth or with morning headaches
- feel sleepy during the day
- have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and find CPAP hard to use
What it involves: sleep apnea is diagnosed first, and we offer a home sleep study so you can be tested in your own bed. A custom oral appliance is then made to hold your lower jaw slightly forward, which helps keep your airway open while you sleep. Learn more about sleep apnea treatment
Not Sure Where to Start?
These symptoms can have other causes too, so the first step is an exam. We will look at your jaw, teeth and bite, ask about your sleep and explain your options. Request an appointment or call (843) 342-6677.
Ready for a more comfortable jaw and better sleep?
Schedule your appointment with Ocean Dental in Hilton Head Island & Bluffton today and find out which treatment is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ and Sleep Apnea


Experience The Ocean Difference
Ready to schedule? Request an appointment and our team will be in touch.


Experience The Ocean Difference
Ready to schedule? Request an appointment and our team will be in touch.

