TMJ improvements on CPAP?!?

[RocketGirl]

A question:

I've worn a bite guard at night for many years due to jaw clenching. I'm such a championship clencher that before I had the guard, I had cracked several molars from the pressure. I can't speak clearly with the guard in place, so I apoligized for this when I went for my sleep study - and the technician mentioned that while I shouldn't get my hopes up, that some people find that CPAP therapy reduces or eliminates their TMJ. (I told him that that would be a miracle beyond imagining, for me...)

Now, today, I just realized that my jaw and ear do not hurt at all. I can't remember a time in my adult life when my jaw and ear did not hurt. Can this really be happening?

Has anyone else experienced changes in TMJ once they were on CPAP?

In the past, I've been rejected from taking scuba lessons because of the TMJ. Dare I hope that I might not get turned down some time in future?

[nanwilson]

I too am a clencher... I have broken 5 molars, 2 of which had to be yanked, they were broken so badly. Even if your pain is gone, I would still not stop using the mouth guard...unless you have a super duper dental plan. I just use a boil and bit...cheap at $5.
Good luck

[RocketGirl]

Thanks - I appreciate the input.

I definitely don't intend to stop using my guard - was just surprised at waking up and not having the usual pain and popping, and wondered what others' experience in this might be.

[terio2]

No don't know if it stopped theclinching. But still if chewing alot then the jaws would get tender. An oral surgeron told me my level was a 2. They never really said hey you really need it.

[Ineedanap]

Two root canals, two pulled. It makes sense that there would be improvement. Instead of being woken up 46 times an hour, I actually get to relax and stay relaxed.