Collaborative Patient Care Beyond Teeth: Solutions for TMJ, Sleep Apnea, and Headaches
Dr. Merchant at Arizona Sleep and Breathing has firsthand experience with the benefits of this care model, having resolved her own previously undiagnosed TMJ dysfunction. Despite experiencing no pain, she underwent treatment, working with a physical therapist to balance her bite and becoming her own myofunctional therapist through oral myology coursework.
She also founded the Airway Provider Study Club in Tucson with a Myofunctional Therapist. This diverse group includes professionals like Sleep Physicians, ENT, Doctor of Physical Therapist, Integrative Medicine. Optometrist, Lactation Consultant and Speech pathologist recognizing the importance of collaboration for optimal patient outcomes.
Pathway to Better Health at Arizona Sleep and Breathing
Consultation
Journey to better health starts with a phone call to our office at 520-299-1736 for an appointment and having a detailed conversation with Dr. Merchant about how we can help in resolving chronic pain, fatigue, headaches, sleep and other concerns that might be related to how your teeth come together.
Detailed Exam
Dr. Merchant believes in looking beyond teeth to understand root cause of symptoms patients have. If you believe some of your unexplained symptoms have not been addressed by other health professionals, we can help!
Treatment
Treatment of TMJ, Sleep and Breathing occurs in phases. Dr. Merchant discusses all the options after detailed exam is performed. Every patient has the opportunity to choose the right sequence of treatment options the works for them!
Happy and Healthy Patient
In a state of painlessness, the body can relax and repair itself. This can lead to improved sleep, better mood, and increased energy levels. Being pain-free is a sign of a healthy body and a happy mind. Let us know how we can help you attain your best quality of life!
Specialized Care for a Pain Free Tomorrow!
What Sets Us Apart
Dr. Merchant subscribes to the philosophy that the alignment and interaction of your teeth can reveal underlying issues within your head and neck region, and these issues may have far-reaching consequences for your overall well-being. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of the human body and suggests that seemingly localized dental problems could be indicative of a broader systemic imbalance.
By carefully analyzing the way your teeth fit together, Dr. Merchant believes it is possible to gain valuable insights into potential stresses, strains, and misalignments that might be affecting your head and neck, and to identify how these issues could be impacting the rest of your body. This holistic approach to dental care underscores the importance of considering the whole person, rather than simply focusing on isolated symptoms or areas of concern.
Our Process
During a comprehensive examination, Dr. Merchant will conduct a thorough assessment of all the muslces of head and neck responsible for jaw function. This will involve the use of electromyography (EMG) to measure muscle activity, jaw tracking with a magnet to monitor jaw movement, and sonography to visualize the jaw joint and identify any abnormalities.
In addition to the technological tools, Dr. Merchant will also perform a hands-on evaluation of the head and neck muscles, noting any areas of tension or discomfort. The patient's expectations for treatment outcomes will be discussed, and a posture analysis will be conducted to assess any postural imbalances that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms.
Furthermore, a multi-night sleep study screening will be conducted to determine if the patient has sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD), such as sleep apnea. This is crucial because SRBD can often exacerbate jaw and headache issues.
Based on the findings of this comprehensive assessment, Dr. Merchant is able to determine if the patient would benefit from supportive therapy with other specialists. This may include a sleep physician to address any SRBD, a myofunctional therapist to improve muscle function and coordination, or a physical therapist to address postural issues and provide pain relief. The order in which these therapies would be most effective will be discussed in detail with the patient, ensuring they have a clear understanding of their treatment plan and the expected outcomes.
If you believe some of your unexplained symptoms of head and neck pain have not been addressed by other health professionals, we can help !
Request an appointment
Healing Begins with Awareness!
At Arizona Sleep and Breathing, Dr. Merchant and team believe in importance of educating patients about the impact their imbalanced dental bite has on the rest of their body. Teeth, tongue, bite, and neuromuscular imbalance in muscles of mastication impacts negatively on TMJ function, airway development, sleep and breathing-related issues at any age. We are a dedicated team of professionals ready to help patients of all ages.
For over 25 years, Dr. Merchant has been providing high-quality comprehensive care for thousands of patients who can attest to her focus, diligence, and genuine passion for dentistry. Each patient is given undivided attention at every visit with in-depth conversation to understand their concerns regarding orofacial pain, sleep and breathing, TMJ, orthodontic, restorative and cosmetic dental care. She is committed towards helping patients with the endless pursuits of continuing education in the field of neuromuscular dentistry and latest advancements in dental technology.
What our patients say !
Our Services
At Arizona Sleep and Breathing, we believe that optimal oral health encompasses both form and function. Dr. Merchant's expertise extends beyond teeth to encompass a comprehensive understanding of how the bite affects the intricate workings of the jaw, facial muscles as well as jaw muscles, and tongue. This holistic approach ensures that any dental work not only enhances the aesthetics of a patient's smile but also supports the proper functioning of these interconnected structures.
Through extensive training and a commitment to staying at the forefront of dental advancements, Dr. Merchant is able to provide patients with treatment plans that prioritize both beauty and optimal functionality, leading to improved oral health and overall well-being.
Patient Portal
Relief Starts Here: Expert Care for TMJ, Sleep Apnea, and Chronic Pain !
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