redstick-dentistry

Breathe easy, live better: How RedStick Dentistry tackles sleep apnea and TMJ pain

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:14:25 GMT

Many people brush off snoring or jaw pain as minor annoyances. At RedStick Dentistry , however, these are red flags that point to something much more serious: sleep apnea and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. Led by Drs. Griff Lewis, Bryant Bourgeois and Chad Lacour, the team at RedStick Dentistry has developed a reputation for uncovering and resolving issues that often go undiagnosed for years.

Dr. Lewis explains that obstructive sleep apnea is far more than a simple sleep problem. When a patient drifts off, gravity can pull the tongue and soft tissues back into the airway, causing it to collapse. The telltale snoring sound is often the body’s attempt to force air through a partially blocked passage. As the airway closes, the brain senses the lack of oxygen and reacts by clenching the jaw and pushing it forward to reopen the airway. This cycle repeats throughout the night, leaving patients exhausted, sore and at serious risk for long-term health problems.

“An apneic event is essentially a period of suffocation during sleep,” Dr. Lewis notes. Over time, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to heart attacks, high blood pressure, cardiovascular stress, weight gain and a host of other health concerns. Meanwhile, the constant clenching and grinding can wear down teeth, strain muscles and trigger or worsen TMJ disorders.

What many patients don’t realize is that a dentist is often on the front lines of identifying these conditions. During routine exams, Dr. Lewis and his partners look for signs such as worn teeth, indentions on the tongue or cheeks, jaw tenderness or reports of frequent morning headaches and unrestful sleep. These subtle clues often lead to a life-changing diagnosis.

For suspected sleep apnea, RedStick Dentistry offers at-home sleep testing, allowing patients to be evaluated in the comfort of their own beds rather than a sleep lab. If the results show mild to moderate sleep apnea, Dr. Lewis can fabricate a custom dental sleep appliance. This device gently repositions the lower jaw forward, helping to keep the tongue from collapsing into the airway. For many patients, this small change translates into deeper sleep, improved daytime energy and reduced health risks.

TMJ treatment at RedStick Dentistry is equally comprehensive and highly individualized. The process often begins with a trigger point exam, during which Dr. Lewis carefully evaluates the muscles of mastication, as well as the neck and upper back, to identify areas of spasm or pain. From there, treatment may include targeted Botox therapy to calm overactive muscles, as well as specially designed day and night appliances that help reposition the jaw into a more comfortable position.

Over the years, Dr. Lewis has pursued advanced training, driven initially by his wife’s struggle with worsening jaw pain after standard treatment. That experience pushed him to study deeper muscle anatomy, higher-level injection techniques and innovative appliance designs. Today, RedStick Dentistry offers patients a wide spectrum of solutions that can be tailored and combined to fit each unique case.

From patients who can finally eat an apple again without pain, to those who are sleeping soundly for the first time in years, the results are often described as life changing.

For individuals who recognize their own struggles in these symptoms, RedStick Dentistry stands ready with the expertise, technology and compassion to help them breathe easier, live better and smile with confidence. Visit redstickdentistry.com to learn more.

How Routine Dental Cleanings Help Protect Your Overall Health

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 13:42:47 GMT

Seeing your dentist for regular cleanings is about more than just a brighter smile—it’s a vital part of maintaining your overall health. During a professional cleaning, your dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t reach. This helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. But the benefits go far beyond your mouth.

Research shows that poor oral health is linked to serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Gum disease, in particular, causes chronic inflammation that can affect the entire body. Regular cleanings reduce this inflammation and lower the risk of these systemic conditions.

Dental visits are also a chance to catch problems early. Dentists can spot signs of oral cancer, vitamin deficiencies, and even conditions like sleep apnea before they become serious. This proactive care can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes.

By committing to routine cleanings every six months, you're not just keeping your teeth healthy—you’re protecting your whole body. It's a simple step that pays off in long-term health and well-being. Don’t wait until there’s a problem—prevent it with regular dental care.

Understanding TMJ Disorders and How Dentists Can Help

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 13:41:18 GMT

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect the joints that connect your jaw to your skull, often causing jaw pain, clicking sounds, headaches, and difficulty chewing. These symptoms can stem from teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, arthritis, or jaw misalignment.

If you're experiencing these issues, your dentist may recommend a dental splint, also called an occlusal guard. These custom-made devices fit over your teeth and help reduce jaw strain by stabilizing your bite and preventing teeth grinding during sleep. Many patients experience significant relief from pain and muscle tension with consistent splint use.

Another increasingly popular option is Botox therapy . While commonly associated with cosmetic treatments, Botox is highly effective for TMJ disorders. When injected into the jaw muscles, Botox reduces muscle activity and relieves tension, pain, and involuntary clenching. It’s a minimally invasive procedure with results that can last several months.

In many cases, a combination of splint therapy and Botox provides the best relief, addressing both the mechanical and muscular causes of TMJ pain.

TMJ disorders can worsen over time if left untreated. If you’re experiencing jaw discomfort, talk to your dentist. With a personalized treatment plan—including splints, Botox, or both—you can find long-term relief and restore comfort to your daily life.

Sleep Apnea and Its Connection to Dentistry

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 13:39:04 GMT

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when throat muscles relax excessively, blocking the airway. While many associate sleep apnea with snoring and fatigue, its connection to oral health is significant and often overlooked.

Dentists play a key role in identifying and managing OSA. During routine exams, dentists may notice signs such as worn teeth (from grinding), a scalloped tongue, or an enlarged soft palate—all potential indicators of sleep-disordered breathing. These clues can prompt further medical evaluation.

Dentistry also offers treatment options. For patients with mild to moderate OSA or those intolerant to CPAP machines, custom-made oral appliances can reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are non-invasive, portable, and effective for many patients.

Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to dry mouth, gum disease, and even TMJ disorders. Beyond oral health, it increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine can collaborate with physicians to help diagnose and treat sleep apnea, improving both sleep quality and overall health. If you experience loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, or jaw discomfort, talk to your dentist—they may be the first step toward better sleep.

When to replace your toothbrush

nedfasullo@gmail.com (Ned Fasullo) — Sun, 31 Jan 2021 18:48:53 GMT

Unlike good wine, toothbrushes don't get better with age. Make sure you replace your toothbrush every three months, and more often in cases when it is looking worn with wear.

According to the American Dental Association, its recommended to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. This is because worn out bristles will be less effective at removing plaque and debris from your teeth and gums.

So its a good idea to keep an eye on the condition of your toothbrush and replace it regularly to ensure you're getting the best cleaning possible.

Electric toothbrushes

nedfasullo@gmail.com (Ned Fasullo) — Sun, 31 Jan 2021 18:48:53 GMT

Some of the benefits of electronic toothbrushes include:

Better plaque removal
Less toothbrush abrasion
Timer to ensure brushing for full two minutes
Better for people with mobility issues

Overall, using an electronic toothbrush can potentially lead to better oral health and a brighter smile!

Toothache? Call us immediately

nedfasullo@gmail.com (Ned Fasullo) — Sun, 31 Jan 2021 18:48:53 GMT

Tootaches can be a minor irritation, or they can be an indication of something much more serious. If you're not quite sure how serious something is, set an appointment with us .