6 COMMON CAUSES OF TMJ FLARE-UPS

Snoring isn't just annoying—it can ruin your sleep, strain relationships, and even be a warning sign of underlying health issues. Whether you're the one snoring or the one losing sleep next to someone who is, you're probably searching for a real solution that works. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Bloxham offers two innovative, non-invasive treatment options to finally get relief from loud snoring: the Solea Sleep Laser procedure and oral appliance therapy. Let’s explore how these advanced treatments can help you breathe better, sleep deeper, and finally enjoy quiet nights again. Why Am I Snoring? Snoring happens when the soft tissues in the back of your throat vibrate as air moves through a narrowed airway during sleep. This can be caused by: Relaxed or sagging soft palate tissue Tongue or jaw position Weight gain or aging Nasal congestion Sleep position (especially back sleeping) For some, snoring is just a noisy nuisance. For others, it can signal a more serious condition like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—especially if it’s paired with gasping, choking, or daytime fatigue. Option 1: Solea Sleep Laser – A Fast, Gentle Snoring Solution If you’re tired of the snoring but don’t want a bulky device or surgery, Solea Sleep may be your answer. This non-invasive laser procedure uses advanced CO₂ laser technology to tighten the soft tissues in the soft palate, reducing vibrations that cause snoring. Why Patients Love Solea Sleep: Quick and comfortable : Done in just one short visit, often in under 10 minutes No downtime : Return to normal activities right away No anesthesia or cutting : Just a gentle warming sensation Long-lasting relief : Many patients experience months of improved sleep from a single treatment Dr. Bloxham is one of the few providers in Tri-Cities Washington offering this cutting-edge laser treatment for snoring relief. Option 2: Oral Appliance Therapy – Quiet Nights with a Simple Device If your snoring is related to jaw position or mild sleep apnea, a custom oral appliance may be the ideal solution. This small device is worn during sleep to gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue, keeping your airway open and quiet. Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy: Comfortable and discreet No cords, masks, or noise (unlike CPAP) Portable and easy to travel with Also treats mild to moderate OSA At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, each oral appliance is custom-fitted by Dr. Bloxham for optimal comfort and effectiveness. Why Choose Us? We specialize in solutions that actually work—without invasive surgery or bulky machines. Whether you’re just snoring or have already been diagnosed with OSA, we’ll help you find the most effective and comfortable treatment option for your needs. Our clinic proudly serves patients from Tri-Cities Washington and the surrounding area, including Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco. Tired of Snoring? Let’s Fix That. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix like Solea Sleep or a nightly solution with oral appliance therapy, Dr. Bloxham and the team at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ are here to help you—and your partner—finally sleep peacefully again. Located in Richland, WA, serving the greater Tri-Cities area Call us today to schedule a consultation.

Are you dealing with chronic headaches that never seem to go away, no matter how many painkillers you try? For many patients, the source of their headache pain isn’t neurological or sinus-related—it's myofascial pain syndrome, a muscle-based condition that often goes undiagnosed. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Bloxham offers targeted, evidence-based treatment for chronic headaches using trigger point injections, especially effective for those suffering from myofascial pain syndrome. What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome? Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain condition caused by tight, irritable spots in the muscles—known as trigger points. These trigger points can form after muscle overuse, injury, poor posture, or prolonged stress and tension. What makes MPS particularly troublesome is that these trigger points often refer pain to other areas of the body, including the head, temples, jaw, neck, and shoulders. Common symptoms include: Persistent headaches or facial pain Muscle tenderness and stiffness A feeling of tight “knots” in the neck or shoulders Pain that worsens with stress or physical activity Limited range of motion MPS is especially common in people with desk jobs, TMJ disorders, sleep disturbances, or chronic stress—factors seen often in patients across Tri-Cities Washington. Chronic Headaches and Myofascial Pain Syndrome: What’s the Connection? Many chronic headaches, particularly tension-type headaches and referred pain headaches, are caused by myofascial trigger points in muscles such as the: Trapezius Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) Temporalis Masseter Suboccipital muscles These muscles can develop trigger points that radiate pain to the forehead, temples, back of the head, and even behind the eyes. If your headaches begin in the neck or shoulders and work their way up—or feel like a constant dull ache—myofascial pain syndrome may be the underlying issue. How Trigger Point Injections Provide Relief Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a safe, quick, and minimally invasive treatment that directly targets muscle-based pain caused by myofascial pain syndrome. How It Works: A very fine needle is used to inject a small amount of anesthetic (and sometimes saline or corticosteroid) directly into the active trigger point This relaxes the tight muscle fibers, increases blood flow, and reduces inflammation The result is fast, often immediate, relief from tension and referred headache pain For many patients, TPIs are a game-changer—especially when other treatments like massage, chiropractic care, or medications have fallen short. Benefits of Trigger Point Injections for Myofascial Headaches Patients across Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, and the broader Tri-Cities Washington area are turning to trigger point injections as a lasting solution for both chronic headaches and myofascial pain syndrome. Benefits include: Rapid pain relief—often within minutes Reduction in headache frequency and intensity Improved mobility and reduced muscle stiffness Decreased reliance on daily pain medications Non-opioid, non-surgical treatment Effective when combined with physical therapy or TMJ treatment Comprehensive Care for Myofascial Pain Syndrome in Tri-Cities, WA At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Bloxham takes a comprehensive approach to pain relief—looking at the root cause rather than just managing symptoms. If your headaches are caused by myofascial pain syndrome, TPIs can be a powerful part of your treatment plan. We specialize in treating interconnected conditions like: Chronic tension headaches TMJ disorders Myofascial pain syndrome Sleep-disordered breathing and poor sleep quality We proudly serve patients from across Tri-Cities Washington and surrounding areas, helping them find lasting relief and better quality of life. Take the First Step Toward Headache Relief Today If you're ready to break free from the cycle of chronic headaches caused by myofascial pain syndrome, contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today to schedule a consultation.  📍 Located in Richland, WA, serving the greater Eastern Washington region 📞 Call us now or visit our website to learn more about trigger point injections for chronic headaches and MPS

Are you or someone you love struggling with loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or poor sleep? These are all potential signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—a condition that affects thousands of people in Tri-Cities Washington each year. If you've searched for “sleep apnea treatment near me” and found yourself overwhelmed by CPAP machines and complicated setups, you're not alone. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, Dr. Bloxham offers a comfortable, effective CPAP alternative using oral appliance therapy—a game-changing solution for those seeking better sleep without the mask. What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)? OSA occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much during sleep, causing a partial or complete blockage of the airway. This leads to pauses in breathing, reduced oxygen levels, and frequent nighttime awakenings—often without you realizing it. Common symptoms include: Loud, chronic snoring Morning headaches Dry mouth or sore throat Excessive daytime sleepiness Difficulty concentrating or memory issue Mood changes or irritability Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues. CPAP Isn't for Everyone While CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is often the first treatment prescribed for OSA, many people find it uncomfortable, noisy, or difficult to use consistently. If you’ve tried CPAP and couldn’t tolerate it—or simply want a more convenient solution—there is an effective alternative available right here in the Tri-Cities. Oral Appliance Therapy: A Comfortable CPAP Alternative At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Bloxham specializes in oral appliance therapy, a proven treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and a great solution for patients who are CPAP-intolerant. These custom-made oral appliances: Gently reposition the jaw and tongue to keep your airway open Are small, quiet, and easy to travel with Don’t require electricity, masks, or tubing Are designed for comfort and ease of use For many patients in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, and surrounding areas, oral appliance therapy offers life-changing sleep apnea relief—without the downsides of CPAP. Why Choose Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ? Dr. Bloxham and his team are leaders in dental sleep medicine, offering personalized care and advanced technology to ensure the best possible results. We work closely with your physician and can even help you navigate insurance coverage for your oral appliance. We proudly serve patients throughout Tri-Cities Washington and the surrounding area, providing a convenient and trusted local option for those searching for alternative options. Ready to Breathe Easier and Sleep Better? If you’re tired of living with the symptoms of OSA—or tired of struggling with a CPAP machine—schedule a consultation with Dr. Bloxham today. Discover how oral appliance therapy can help you get the restful, healthy sleep you deserve.  Located in Richland, WA, and serving Pasco, Kennewick, Richland and the surrounding communities. Call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ or visit our website to book your appointment now.

If you’ve been searching for effective jaw pain relief, you may have come across the term “myofascial pain injection for jaw pain.” At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA, we specialize in providing this powerful, non-surgical treatment to help patients finally find relief from chronic facial and jaw pain. 🧠 What is Myofascial Pain? Myofascial pain refers to discomfort caused by trigger points — small, tight knots in the muscles that can cause pain directly at the site or refer pain to other areas like the jaw, neck, or head. In many cases of TMJ disorder, myofascial pain is a significant contributor to jaw stiffness, tenderness, and difficulty chewing or talking. If you experience: Sore jaw muscles Facial pain that worsens with use Headaches starting at the temples Clicking or popping when opening your mouth You may benefit from targeted myofascial pain injections . 💉 What is a Myofascial Pain Injection for Jaw Pain? A myofascial pain injection involves delivering a small amount of medication (such as Botox, Xeomin, or Daxxify, & others) directly into the trigger points within the jaw muscles. This helps to: Relax tight muscles Improve blood flow to the affected area Interrupt the pain cycle At Columbia Center, we perform these injections precisely and gently to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness. ⚡ Why Choose Myofascial Pain Injections? ✅ Immediate muscle relief in many cases ✅ Minimally invasive and performed in-office ✅ Addresses the source of pain, not just the symptoms ✅ Often part of a broader, comprehensive TMJ treatment plan Many patients report feeling a significant decrease in jaw pain and tension within just a few days after treatment. 📍 Why Trust Columbia Center for Your Jaw Pain Treatment? Our team is highly trained in TMJ disorders, facial pain, and non-surgical pain management techniques. We understand that chronic jaw pain isn’t “just” an annoyance — it impacts your ability to eat, speak, sleep, and live fully. When you trust Columbia Center for your myofascial pain injection for jaw pain , you get: Personalized evaluation and care A focus on conservative, effective treatments first A compassionate, experienced provider who listens 💬 Real Patient Experience "The doctor and staff were very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. They all took time to answer my questions, I never felt rushed, and came up with a solution to resolve my jaw pain." – Melinda R., WA 📞 Ready to Finally Find Relief? If you're tired of jaw pain ruling your life, it’s time to take the first step toward healing. Call (509) 581-4456 or schedule your appointment online to learn if a myofascial pain injection for jaw pain is right for you. Serving patients in Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and across Tri-Cities WA.

If you’re wondering how to fix TMJ pain without surgery , you’re not alone — and the good news is, for most people, surgery isn’t necessary at all . At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , we specialize in non-surgical solutions that address the real causes of TMJ pain so you can get back to eating, talking, sleeping, and living without discomfort. 🧠 What Is TMJ Pain, Exactly? TMJ (short for temporomandibular joint ) is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. TMJ pain, often part of TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) , can be caused by: Jaw clenching or teeth grinding Misalignment of the bite Muscle tension in the jaw and neck Poor posture or stress Previous jaw trauma or dental work This can lead to a range of symptoms including: Clicking or popping in the jaw Facial or ear pain Headaches and migraines Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully Jaw locking or stiffness 🛠️ How to Fix TMJ Pain Without Surgery: Our Proven Approach Most TMJ issues can be resolved with conservative, non-invasive treatments . Here’s how we approach TMJ pain relief at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ: ✅ 1. Custom Oral Appliances These FDA-approved devices gently reposition your jaw to make it orthopedically stable, relieving pressure on the joint and muscles. They’re much more effective than generic night guards. ✅ 2. Myofascial Trigger Point Injections For patients with tight, overworked jaw muscles, we use precise, in-office injections to release tension and reduce inflammation. ✅ 3. Bite & Jaw Function Analysis We evaluate your bite, posture, and jaw movement to identify how your joint is functioning — and where the stress points are coming from. ✅ 4. Lifestyle & Sleep Guidance We offer guidance on stress management, sleep positioning, diet, and ergonomic changes that support long-term TMJ health. ✅ 5. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments We track your progress and fine-tune your treatment plan, so you’re never left wondering what’s next. 📍 Serving Tri-Cities WA and Beyond Located in Richland and easily accessible from Kennewick, Pasco, and surrounding areas , Columbia Center is the go-to clinic for patients looking for how to fix TMJ pain without surgery . 📞 Ready to Start Healing? You don’t have to live with TMJ pain — and you don’t need surgery to fix it. 📞 Call us today at (509) 581-4456 or schedule your appointment online to find out which non-surgical treatment is right for you.

If you’re searching for myofascial pain injections for jaw pain in Kennewick, WA , chances are you’re experiencing tightness, soreness, or discomfort in your jaw muscles that just won’t go away. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , we specialize in treating TMJ-related muscle pain with targeted, non-surgical techniques that bring real, lasting relief. 🧠 What Is Myofascial Pain — and How Does It Affect the Jaw? Myofascial pain syndrome is a condition caused by tight, inflamed muscle tissue that forms painful trigger points. In the jaw, this can result in: Soreness or stiffness when opening and closing your mouth Pain while chewing or talking Headaches or facial pain that radiates from the jaw Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations in the jaw joints If you've tried night guards, stretches, or heat packs but still experience jaw discomfort, it may be time to consider in-office trigger point treatment . 💉 What Are Myofascial Pain Injections? Myofascial pain injections involve placing a small amount of medication — often a local anesthetic and/or anti-inflammatory — directly into the affected muscle. The goal is to: Release muscle tension Break the pain cycle Improve blood flow to the area Provide fast-acting relief for jaw discomfort This treatment is especially effective when jaw pain is caused by muscle overuse, TMJ disorder , or chronic clenching or grinding . ✅ Why Choose Columbia Center for Jaw Pain Relief? When it comes to myofascial pain injections for jaw pain in Kennewick, WA , Columbia Center stands out for our: Precision and expertise in orofacial muscle anatomy Compassionate, patient-first approach Focus on long-term relief, not temporary fixes Convenient location in Richland, WA — just minutes from Kennewick We treat the whole picture — looking not just at your jaw, but at your posture, sleep habits, and stress levels to build a treatment plan that works. 📍 Serving Kennewick and the Greater Tri-Cities Area Whether you live in Kennewick or nearby in Richland, Pasco, or West Richland , our clinic is easily accessible — and highly reviewed by patients across Eastern Washington. When you search for myofascial pain injections for jaw pain in Kennewick, WA , we want you to feel confident you’ve found the right place. 📞 Ready to Feel Better? You don’t have to live with constant jaw pain. Call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ at (509) 581-4456 or request your consultation online to find out if myofascial pain injections are right for you.

If you’ve found yourself desperately Googling “trigeminal neuralgia treatment near me,” you’re likely dealing with a kind of pain that’s hard to describe — and even harder to live with. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we specialize in treating complex facial pain conditions, including trigeminal neuralgia , with compassion, precision, and a focus on long-term relief. 🧠 What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia? Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic condition that affects the trigeminal nerve , which carries sensation from your face to your brain. For people with TN, even gentle touch — like brushing your teeth, chewing, or feeling a breeze — can trigger intense, shock-like facial pain. Common characteristics of TN include: Sudden, stabbing pain on one side of the face Episodes that come and go in bursts Pain triggered by mild stimulation (eating, talking, touching your face) Pain that worsens over time or becomes more frequent 😖 Living with Trigeminal Neuralgia Often described as one of the most painful conditions known, TN can severely impact quality of life. Unfortunately, because symptoms can mimic dental or sinus issues, many patients go through multiple providers — and even unnecessary procedures — before receiving a correct diagnosis. At our clinic in Richland, WA, we take the time to listen to your story, rule out other causes , and provide personalized care focused on your relief. 💡 How We Treat Trigeminal Neuralgia There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for trigeminal neuralgia — but there are effective options. At Columbia Center, we offer: Accurate assessment and collaboration with your care team (dentists, neurologists, ENTs, primary care providers) Trigger point therapy and myofascial injections to relieve secondary pain Oral appliances Lifestyle guidance and stress reduction strategies Referral management for patients who may benefit from medications or neurology-based care Our goal is to be your first stop toward answers and your ongoing partner in pain relief. 💬 What Patients Are Saying "Absolutely outstanding, knowledgeable staff. I finally found answers to my mysterious dysautonomia and trigeminal neuralgia symptoms. Best day of my life!." – Mary B., WA  📍 Located Near You in Pasco — Serving All of Tri-Cities WA If you're searching for trigeminal neuralgia treatment near me, we're right here in the heart of the Tri-Cities. Our clinic serves patients in Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and the surrounding areas who are looking for real solutions for chronic facial pain. 📞 Ready to Get Your Life Back? Trigeminal neuralgia doesn’t have to control your life. Let’s find a treatment plan that works for you. 📱 Call us today at (509) 581-4456 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation with a provider who understands your pain — and how to treat it.

If you’ve been Googling “non surgical TMJ treatment near me,” chances are you’re looking for real relief from jaw pain, clicking, or chronic headaches — without resorting to invasive procedures. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , we specialize in exactly that: proven, non-surgical TMJ solutions tailored to your specific needs. 🧠 What is TMJ Disorder — and Why Does it Hurt So Much? TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) becomes irritated, misaligned, or stressed. This small hinge can cause big problems — especially when the muscles, nerves, or bite mechanics around it are out of balance. Common TMJ symptoms include: Clicking or popping in the jaw Jaw stiffness or locking Facial, ear, or neck pain Headaches or migraines Pain while eating, speaking, or yawning Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort 🛠️ Why Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment Is the First — and Best — Option While surgery is sometimes considered a last resort, most TMJ disorders respond extremely well to non-invasive treatments . In fact, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons recommends trying conservative, reversible care before considering surgery. At Columbia Center, we take that seriously — and we’ve helped hundreds of patients find relief without going under the knife . ✅ What Does Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment Look Like? If you’re searching for non surgical TMJ treatment near me , here’s what you can expect when you visit our clinic: 1. Custom Oral Appliance Therapy We create FDA-approved oral orthotics that gently place your jaw in an orthopedically-stable position. These appliances can relieve muscle tension, reduce joint stress, and allow for healing to take place. 2. Myofascial Trigger Point Injections Targeted injections into the jaw and facial muscles can release tension and relieve pain — especially for patients with tight, inflamed muscles. 3. Bite & Jaw Function Analysis We evaluate your bite, posture, and range of motion to uncover the root causes of your symptoms and design a treatment plan built just for you. 4. Lifestyle & Sleep Guidance Stress management, sleep positioning, and jaw-friendly diet adjustments can make a huge impact. We’ll guide you through these changes with easy, practical steps. 📍 Non-Surgical TMJ Specialists Serving Tri-Cities WA Located in Richland , we serve patients across Kennewick, Richland, and the entire Tri-Cities area . So if you’re searching for non surgical TMJ treatment near me , let us help you get back to feeling like yourself again — without surgery, downtime, or guesswork. 📞 Start Your Journey to Jaw Relief Let’s ditch the pain — and the surgery. 📞 Call us at (509) 581-4456 or request a consultation online to see if our non-surgical TMJ treatments are right for you.

If you’ve been Googling “headache doctor near me,” you’ve probably tried everything — hydration, over-the-counter meds, even sleeping in a dark room — only to have the pain keep coming back. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , we specialize in getting to the root cause of chronic headaches so you can finally experience long-term relief. 🧠 When to See a Headache Specialist Everyone gets the occasional headache — but if you experience: Headaches 3+ times per week Pain that begins in the temples, jaw, or neck Morning headaches or waking up in pain Tension that worsens with chewing, stress, or screen time Headaches paired with jaw clicking or facial soreness …you may be dealing with TMJ-related or myofascial headaches or an underlying sleep-related breathing disorder , and a standard solution may not be enough. That’s where a specialist comes in. ⚡ Not All Headaches Start in the Brain Many chronic headaches are caused not by neurological issues, but by tight muscles, jaw misalignment, or clenching during sleep . As specialists in orofacial pain and TMJ disorders , we understand the overlap between muscle tension, bite position, airway issues, and headaches. If your pain is linked to TMJ, posture, sleep disorder, or muscle dysfunction, we’ll find it — and treat it without guesswork. 🛠️ How We Treat Headaches at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ When you visit our clinic, your care starts with a comprehensive evaluation — no cookie-cutter treatments here. We look at: Your bite and jaw movement Muscle tension in the head, neck, and face Sleep quality and breathing patterns Your headache history and known triggers Depending on your findings, we may recommend: Custom oral appliances to reduce nighttime clenching and TMJ strain Trigger point injections to release tight facial and jaw muscles Airway assessments to rule out undiagnosed sleep apnea Lifestyle recommendations to manage posture, sleep, and screen habits 📍 Looking for a Headache Doctor Near Me in Tri-Cities? We proudly serve patients from Pasco, Kennewick, Richland , and surrounding areas. When you search for a headache doctor near me , we’re here with the answers — and the expertise — you’ve been hoping for. 📞 Don’t Let Headaches Run Your Life If headaches are affecting your relationships, your work, or your ability to rest, let’s fix that — together. 📞 Call (509) 581-4456 or book your appointment online and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.