08-27-2018, 07:38 AM
Chin strap cause problems?
Hi, can a chin strap cause jaw problems after long term use? I had braces as a teenager which corrected an overbite. I currently use the Dreamwear nasal cushion and love the mask. However, I sometimes mouth breathe and wake up with a seriously dry mouth. I tried a soft cervical collar but that ended up giving me neck issues. My chiropractor said he would rather me use a chin strap than a soft cervical collar. My concern would be long term use of a chin strap would cause jaw issues. Am I being paranoid?
RE: Chin strap cause problems?
The trick with the chin strap is getting one that doesn't pull back on your jaw instead of up. Another thing is to make sure it's not tight and pulling on your jaw. It should hold your jaw closed without putting any pressure on it.
RE: Chin strap cause problems?
Get one that wraps round your head with gaps for the ears.
I got a good one from China, a fraction of the price of buying one here.
The chin strap should be just tight enough round the back of the head to hold it in place, then tighten the top strap to pull up on the jaw rather than back on the jaw. You might still get air leaking from the lips. I have yet to beat this problem, but most nights I get by and do get some nights with 0.0 AHI. If it is below 0.3 I am happy and usually get a big green
on the machine.
I am NOT a doctor. I try to help, but do not take what I say as medical advice.
Every journey, however large or small starts with the first step.
RE: Chin strap cause problems?
I had TMJ and found that my chin strap actually helped my TMJ.
Larch45
