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.
Specialized Care for a Pain-Free Tomorrow!
What Sets Us Apart
A detailed exam is an essential step toward better health, offering an opportunity for in-depth health status discussion and analysis. Collaborative care is key to this process.
Our healthcare professional team (including ENT, Sleep Physicians, Myofunctional Therapists, Physical Therapists, Lactation consultants, and other allied health providers) combines their expertise to give comprehensive and coordinated care. This collaborative approach ensures complete attention to all aspects of a patient's health, providing the most effective and efficient care possible.
Myofunctional Therapists specialize in addressing muscle imbalances and improving oral function, which can alleviate TMJ pain and contribute to better sleep and breathing patterns.
Doctors of Physical Therapy employ manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to manage TMJ pain, restore jaw mobility, and enhance overall physical function.
Lactation Consultants play a crucial role in identifying and addressing potential breastfeeding difficulties that may be associated with TMJ dysfunction or sleep-disordered breathing in infants. They also provide guidance on proper feeding techniques and positioning to promote optimal oral development and reduce the risk of future TMJ problems.
Sleep and Language Pathologists assess and treat sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea, which can often coexist with TMJ dysfunction. They also evaluate and manage any speech and language difficulties that may be associated with these conditions.
By collaborating closely and leveraging their unique expertise, our team develops personalized treatment plans that address the multifaceted nature of TMJ dysfunction and sleep-related breathing disorders, leading to improved patient outcomes and enhanced quality of life.
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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 are the right office for you!
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!
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.
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.
Our Services
Patient Portal
Relief Starts Here: Expert Care for TMJ, Sleep Apnea, and Chronic Pain!
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