6 Common Causes Of TMJ Flare-ups

6 COMMON CAUSES OF TMJ FLARE-UPS

Do you frequently have jaw pain in the morning or notice a popping or clicking sound as you chew? Does it hurt to open your mouth wide? Do you experience mysterious neck, shoulder, and back discomfort or migraines?


You might have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder if you answered “yes” to any of these questions (TMD). TMD is more frequent than you might imagine. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, more than 10 million Americans have TMD.


The temporomandibular joint experiences persistent stress as a result of TMD, often known as TMJ. Misaligned teeth or an unbalanced set of jaw muscles are the usual culprits in this increased tension. The ligaments in the area may become stretched out due to ongoing stress on the TMJ. To make up for the strained ligaments, the jaw muscles may also shorten or lengthen.


When a TMJ condition patient experiences a severe TMJ pain flare-up, the problem frequently returns after a few days and tends to come and go. While some preventative actions can help lessen the amount of discomfort, home remedies can be utilized to relieve mild to moderate discomfort. For jaw function and a better quality of life, people with more severe cases of ongoing pain or swelling may require professional treatment.

Recognizing TMJ Dysfunction

Just in front of each ear is the temporomandibular joint, which opens and closes the jaw. Patients may be diagnosed with TMJ if they experience frequent discomfort, swelling, stiffness, or popping. How do you get TMJ? There are some causes, including:


  • Improper development or creation of joints
  • Choices of the way of life
  • Injury to the jaw or nearby area
  • Difficulties with arthritis
  • Routinely clenching and grinding one’s teeth
  • A dental expert’s evaluation is necessary for a precise diagnosis.

Excruciating tmj pain

What Causes TMJ To Flare Up?

You can prevent TMJ flare-ups or reduce their severity and duration by identifying triggers and dealing with them.

Stress

Even when you’re awake, stress might cause you to clench your jaw and grind your teeth (bruxism). Acute TMD is made worse by the increased stress and pressure on the TMJ and face muscles.


According to hormone research, TMJ discomfort may result from low levels of natural estrogen. Birth control pills’ release of synthetic estrogens and the resulting hormonal changes may also be at play.

Hard And Chewy Foods

Gum chewing, ice-crunching, and eating items that are firm or chewy and put stress on the TMJ, like bagels, entire apples, gummy sweets, and nuts, can all cause an attack.

Dehydration

Dehydration makes joint lubrication less effective, which causes an outbreak.


Poor posture can cause your lower jaw to protrude forward and cause your spine to be out of alignment, putting too much strain on specific face muscles and the tissues that support them, including the TMJ.

The Neck Muscles

The muscles that regulate breathing, chewing, talking, biting, and head position are closely related to the bones in your neck. TMJ/TMD discomfort is brought on by the recruitment of other muscles by strained and fatigued neck muscles, which creates an imbalance.

Medication

Some drugs may cause you to clench and grind your teeth. You shouldn’t stop taking them, but it would be a good idea to discuss them with an expert in orofacial discomfort.

Low Vitamin Levels

  1. Muscle soreness may be brought on by vitamin D deficiency.
  2. Average Flare-Up Duration
  3. Individual flare-ups differ according to the underlying reason or trigger. How long a flare-up lasts can also be influenced by whether a doctor is actively addressing the TMJ problem. The majority of flare-ups last two days to a few weeks.
How Long Does TMJ Last?

A TMJ flare-up may cause one or more of the following symptoms:



  • Continual or intermittent jaw and surrounding area pain
  • Headaches
  • Earaches Loud popping or clicking sounds are made when opening or closing the mouth
  • Pain that travels down the shoulders or neck
  • Swelling of the face Limited jaw movement
  • Fixed jaw
Treatment For TMJ Flare-Ups

While dealing with a flare-up may seem difficult, it’s simpler than you may imagine. Splint Therapy is the most effective research-based long-term therapy option for TMD, although you can take steps to deal with a flare-up on your own, such as:


  • Avoid meals that make your TMJ work too hard to chew. Don’t chew gum.
  • Remain hydrated. Eat foods with high water content, such as cucumber, tomatoes, cantaloupe, and cauliflower, and drink water. Prevent caffeine.
  • Simple jaw stretches and relaxation exercises might help you release stress and/or improve your posture.
  • To prevent stress on your jaw, sleep on your back. Make use of a pillow that can adequately support your neck and head.
  • Try myofascial massage therapy to relieve stress and tightness and relax tense muscles.
  • Although it’s easier said than done, reducing stress can help treat flare-ups and even work to prevent them from happening in the first place. Become more adept at relaxation techniques,g stretching, meditation, and deep breathing. Regular exercise might help you relax.
  • Apply warm compress pads to your neck, temples, and face muscles before engaging in the suggested stretches and exercises to keep your TMJ from becoming rigid. Apply a cold compress after stretching.
  • Physical therapy that manipulates the muscles around the TMJ and the jaw can ease discomfort and stress.
  • A qualified acupuncturist who locates trigger points and stiffness can use acupuncture to reduce tension and improve blood flow to the affected area.


The last thing you want to do is exacerbate your TMJ disease. Start by giving up these behaviors that might worsen TMJ symptoms while also being bad for your oral health.


  • Using your teeth as tools

Your teeth are not the appropriate instruments for the job if you need to open a difficult package or bottle or if you have a fingernail that needs to be filed down.

The force required for these tasks exerts strain on the jaw joint and muscles, exacerbating TMJ symptoms. Find the scissors, bottle opener, or nail file, and you might avoid some misery.

  • Nervous chewing


Do you chew on the closest pencil or pen when you’re bored, anxious, or stressed?


Any unnecessary chewing strains the jaw and might make TMJ symptoms worse. Sugarless gum is frequently chosen by anxious chewers, but if you have TMJ disease, that is not a good idea. Instead, attempt sucking on sugar-free mints.

  • Dozing off on your stomach

Maintain proper alignment of your neck, head, and back as you sleep to prevent aggravating TMJ problems. Your jaw is subjected to additional stress when you sleep on your stomach. Instead, try resting on your back with a supple, firm cushion supporting your head.

  • Taking large bites


Large bites can cause the jaw joint to become overextended, adding to the surrounding muscles and tendons’ TMJ pain. To assist in stopping the progression of TMJ symptoms, cut your food into smaller bites.


Is TMJ life-threatening? TMJ problem is not life-threatening, but if left untreated, they can cause substantial strain and discomfort. Even the development of conditions like anxiety and depression can be influenced by chronic pain. If you are seeking TMJ sleep therapy in Richland, then come into our center for sleep apnea and TMJ to speak to our doctor about TMJ treatment in Richland

June 13, 2025
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.
June 9, 2025
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.
June 6, 2025
Living with nerve-related pain can be exhausting, isolating, and frustrating — especially when traditional treatments don’t seem to help. If you’ve been searching for neuropathic pain treatment in Tri-Cities, WA , the team at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ is here to offer relief and real solutions. We specialize in managing complex head, neck, and facial pain — and that includes neuropathic conditions like trigeminal neuralgia , burning mouth syndrome, and post-injury nerve pain. 🧠 What Is Neuropathic Pain? Neuropathic pain occurs when nerves become damaged, dysfunctional, or overly sensitive , often due to trauma, inflammation, surgery, or unknown causes. Unlike muscle or joint pain, it often feels: Burning or tingling Electric or stabbing Numb but painful at the same time Triggered by even light touch (like brushing your face or chewing) This kind of pain is often persistent, unpredictable, and resistant to typical painkillers . ⚡ Common Causes of Neuropathic Facial Pain Trigeminal neuralgia Dental trauma or extractions Jaw surgery or TMJ disorders Post-viral nerve sensitivity Unknown (idiopathic) causes If you’ve been told "everything looks fine," but your pain is still very real — we believe you. 💡 How We Approach Neuropathic Pain Treatment in Tri-Cities, WA At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we take a comprehensive and individualized approach. Every patient is different — so your treatment plan will be, too. Our neuropathic pain care may include: Targeted diagnostic testing to rule out other causes Medication management Trigger point and myofascial injections for secondary muscle pain Oral appliance therapy if jaw or sleep positioning contributes to nerve pressure Lifestyle and nutrition recommendations that support nerve health We also collaborate with neurologists, ENTs, and pain management specialists throughout the Tri-Cities to make sure you’re supported from every angle. 💬 What Patients Say "Solid experience, first place to give me a diagnosis for several things that have been messing me up for about a decade. Genuinely improving my life." – Martin P., WA 📍 Trusted Neuropathic Pain Treatment in Tri-Cities, WA Located in Pasco, our clinic is easily accessible for patients in Kennewick, Richland, and the greater Tri-Cities area. If you’re struggling with unexplained facial pain or nerve-related discomfort, you don’t have to live in the dark any longer. We’re here to help you get your life — and your peace — back. 📞 Let’s Talk If you’re searching for compassionate, expert neuropathic pain treatment in Tri-Cities, WA , contact us today. Call (509) 581-4456 or request an appointment online — and take your first step toward lasting relief.
June 2, 2025
If you're constantly typing “ headache treatment near me ” into Google, hoping for real answers, you're not alone. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA, we specialize in helping patients find lasting relief from chronic headaches — not just temporary fixes. 🧠 Why Are You Getting Headaches? Headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, and many common culprits are often overlooked . Some of the leading triggers we diagnose and treat include: Muscle tension in the head, neck, and jaw TMJ disorders (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) Sleep apnea or breathing disorders Stress and poor posture Nerve irritation or compression If your headaches are frequent, severe, or paired with jaw pain or facial tightness, the cause might be deeper than simple dehydration or stress. 🚫 Why Over-the-Counter Medications Aren’t Enough While occasional headaches may respond to pain relievers, chronic headaches often signal a larger underlying issue. Medications often mask symptoms but don't solve the real problem — and that’s why our approach at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ is different. We dig deeper to find the root cause of your headaches so we can create a personalized plan to truly improve your quality of life. 🛠️ Our Approach to Headache Treatment When you come to Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, and consult with Dr. Jared Bloxham, for headache treatment, we offer: Comprehensive history and symptom evaluation Examination of the jaw, bite, airway, and muscles of the head and neck Custom oral appliances Trigger point injections for myofascial pain relief Lifestyle and ergonomic counseling to reduce daily triggers Our goal is to help you break the headache cycle — and give you long-term tools for a healthier, pain-free life. 📍 Conveniently Located for Patients Across Tri-Cities WA We proudly serve headache patients from Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and the entire Tri-Cities area. If you’re searching for headache treatment near me , our team is here with answers, compassion, and proven solutions. 📞 Ready to Find Relief? Don’t settle for another day ruled by headache pain. Call us today at (509) 581-4456 or request an appointment online to take the first step toward real relief. We can’t wait to help you feel like yourself again.
May 30, 2025
If you’re struggling with constant headaches and are searching for headache treatment in Tri-Cities, WA , you’re not alone — and you’re in the right place. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, we specialize in getting to the root causes of chronic head and facial pain to help you finally find lasting relief. 🤕 Why Do Headaches Happen? Headaches aren’t all created equal. Some are triggered by muscle tension, nerve irritation, jaw dysfunction (TMJ disorders) , or even sleep apnea . Many patients suffer for years without realizing the true source of their pain — and that’s where seeing a specialist makes all the difference. Common types of headaches we see and treat include: Tension headaches (tightness around forehead or back of head) TMJ-related headaches (pain centered near the temples or jaw) Migraines (often with nausea or light sensitivity) Referred pain from nerve or muscle dysfunction in the head, neck, or jaw 🧠 Our Comprehensive Approach to Headache Treatment At Columbia Center, we believe in treating the whole patient — not just masking symptoms with medication. When you come to us for headache treatment in Tri-Cities, WA, you can expect: Detailed health history review (headache patterns, triggers, lifestyle factors) Muscle, jaw, and nerve evaluations to find hidden causes Advanced imaging if needed to assess TMJ or airway issues Personalized treatment plans designed to actually solve the problem 🛠️ Treatment Options We Offer Depending on your specific case, your treatment plan may include: Custom oral appliances to reduce jaw tension and nighttime clenching Myofascial trigger point injections to release tight muscles in the face, jaw, or neck Lifestyle and ergonomic counseling (posture, work habits, sleep position) Referrals to neurology or other specialties when indicated for more complex cases Most importantly, we work with you — tailoring care to your individual needs and goals. 💬 Patient Success Story "I’ve spent the last 30 years with terrible headaches and sleep apnea. I’ve seen several dentists. I’ve seen several medical doctors. I’ve had several surgeries. This man has BEEN there! He’s a research geek and KNOWS his stuff. Do I feel better? Not yet. BUT I finally have HOPE that I WILL!! Healing is a process, but when you know what to do, it is exhilarating!" – Julie C., WA 📍 Conveniently Located for Headache Treatment in Tri-Cities, WA Our Richland office is easy to reach from Kennewick, Richland, and surrounding areas . Whether you’re dealing with occasional migraines or constant, nagging tension headaches, you deserve a care team that listens and delivers results. 📞 Ready to Feel Better? If you’re searching for headache treatment in Tri-Cities, WA , don’t wait any longer to get help. We’re ready to help you feel like yourself again. Call us today at (509) 581-4456 or schedule your consultation online. Let’s find the real cause of your headaches — and fix it together.
May 26, 2025
If you’ve been searching for a TMJ specialist in Pasco, WA , chances are you’re dealing with jaw pain, headaches, or other frustrating symptoms that just won’t go away. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , we specialize in helping patients find long-term relief — without surgery or endless guesswork. 🦷 What Does a TMJ Specialist Do? A TMJ specialist focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) — the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is out of alignment or stressed, it can cause a variety of uncomfortable and even debilitating symptoms. Common signs you may need to see a TMJ specialist include: Jaw pain or tenderness Clicking or popping when chewing or yawning Frequent headaches or migraines Earaches or a sense of fullness in the ears Neck, shoulder, or facial pain Difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully 👨‍⚕️ Meet Your TMJ Specialist in Pasco, WA At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Bloxham is an experienced TMJ specialist who takes a holistic, non-invasive approach to diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. What makes our office different? ✅ We specialize in facial pain, TMJ, and sleep disorders — Dr. Bloxham has an entire degree that is specialized in the diagnosing and treatment of orofacial pain conditions! ✅ We use advanced diagnostics , including CBCT imaging ✅ We focus on long-term, non-surgical solutions ✅ We listen — really listen — to your health history and symptoms 🛠️ Personalized TMJ Treatment Options We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care. After your initial consultation, we create a customized treatment plan that might include: Custom oral appliances to reposition the jaw and relieve pressure Trigger point injections for myofascial pain Bite and alignment assessments Education on posture, sleep position, and stress reduction techniques Most patients begin noticing improvements within just a few weeks. 💬 Real Patient Results "The staff and crew of Dr Bloxem go above and beyond to make everyone informed and comfortable. I have been told for years that nothing can be done for TMJ. MY DENTIST gave me a referral for Dr Bloxem. He has been a life saver. I fell down a flight of stairs and really damaged my neck and jaw. Thanks to PT and Dr Bloxem I am almost back to normal. I highly recommend Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ. It has been such a blessing in my life." – Sue C., WA 📍 Conveniently Located for Tri-Cities Patients If you’re looking for a TMJ specialist in Pasco, WA , our office is easy to find and welcoming from the moment you walk in. We proudly serve patients from Kennewick, Richland, and all surrounding areas . Whether you’ve been diagnosed with TMD or you’re just beginning to explore what’s causing your discomfort, we’re here to help. 📞 Call Today to Schedule Your Consultation Don’t wait another day to get answers. Call us at (509) 581-4456 or request your appointment online to take the first step toward lasting TMJ relief.
May 23, 2025
If you’ve been searching for the top sleep apnea clinic near me , you’re probably tired of sleepless nights, loud snoring, and waking up more exhausted than when you went to bed. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA , we offer personalized, non-invasive sleep solutions that help you finally get the rest you deserve. 😴 What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night — often without you even realizing it. This can cause: Loud, disruptive snoring Morning headaches Dry mouth Daytime fatigue Memory or concentration issues Increased risk of high blood pressure, heart problems, and depression Many people suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) , where the airway becomes blocked — often due to jaw position, tongue placement, or throat muscle collapse during sleep. ⚠️ Why CPAP Isn’t for Everyone CPAP therapy is commonly prescribed for sleep apnea, but studies show only 1 in 4 patients can stick with it long-term . Many find the mask uncomfortable, noisy, or inconvenient — especially for travel or shared bedrooms. If that sounds like you, don’t worry. You still have options. 🦷 Why Columbia Center Is the Top Sleep Apnea Clinic Near You Here’s why patients across Tri-Cities choose Columbia Center when searching for the top sleep apnea clinic near me : ✅ We Specialize in CPAP Alternatives We offer custom oral appliances — FDA-approved devices that gently reposition your jaw and keep your airway open without a mask or hose. ✅ Better Reviews, Better Results Patients love our personalized approach, welcoming office, and real-life results. Just check our 5-star reviews — they speak for themselves. ✅ Expert Care Without the Wait We provide prompt evaluations, in-depth airway assessments, and long-term support tailored to your lifestyle. ✅ We Work With Your Physician We coordinate care with your sleep physician or dentist, ensuring your treatment is safe, complete, and collaborative. 📍 Serving the Tri-Cities: Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and Beyond We’re proud to serve patients from across Eastern Washington who are tired of being tired. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or are struggling with CPAP use, Columbia Center is your trusted top sleep apnea clinic near me. 📞 Ready to Sleep (and Breathe) Better? Let’s ditch the fatigue and find a sleep solution that works for you. 📞 Call us today at (509) 581-4456 or request your consultation online.
May 19, 2025
If you’re searching for the best TMJ specialist near me, you’re likely tired of dealing with constant jaw pain, headaches, popping joints, or difficulty chewing. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA, we specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders with a comprehensive, non-surgical approach — helping you find real, lasting relief. 🦷 What Does a TMJ Specialist Do? A TMJ specialist focuses on the complex relationship between your j aw joints , muscles , nerves , and airway . When the temporomandibular joints are out of balance, it can lead to symptoms like: Jaw stiffness or locking Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds Headaches or migraines Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) Facial pain and muscle tension Trouble chewing or opening your mouth fully Treating TMJ disorders requires more than just a mouthguard — it takes a detailed understanding of your anatomy, bite, sleep patterns, and lifestyle. 🛠️ Why Patients Choose Columbia Center for TMJ Care Wondering what makes us the best TMJ specialist near you? Here’s what sets us apart: ✅ Comprehensive Evaluations We don’t guess. We perform detailed exams, bite analysis, and digital imaging if needed to fully understand your jaw health. ✅ Non-Surgical Solutions First Most TMJ disorders can be treated without surgery. We offer customized oral appliances, myofascial pain treatments, and lifestyle guidance to relieve pain safely and effectively. ✅ Specialized Expertise Unlike general dental offices that may offer generic splints, TMJ care is a major focus of our practice. We understand the unique challenges of facial pain and have the advanced training to treat it at the source. ✅ Personalized, Patient-First Approach No two patients are the same — and your treatment shouldn’t be either. We tailor each plan to your symptoms, goals, and lifestyle. 📍 Conveniently Serving Tri-Cities WA and Surrounding Areas Located in Pasco, our clinic is easily accessible for patients throughout Kennewick, Richland, and greater Tri-Cities WA . If you’re looking for the best TMJ specialist near me , trust your smile and comfort to a team that truly specializes in TMJ relief. 📞 Start Your Journey to a Pain-Free Life Don’t let jaw pain control your days any longer.  Call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ at (509) 581-4456 or request an appointment online today. We’re here to help you move, eat, sleep, and smile — without pain.
May 16, 2025
If you’ve been Googling “TMJ doctor near me” because of persistent jaw pain, clicking, or headaches, you’re not alone — and you’re in the right place. TMJ disorders can affect your ability to eat, speak, sleep, and live comfortably. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Pasco, Washington, we specialize in helping people just like you find lasting relief without surgery. 🦷 What Is TMJ? TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint , the small but mighty hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. When this joint or the muscles around it become inflamed, irritated, or misaligned, it can lead to TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) — a painful and often confusing condition with a wide range of symptoms. 👂 Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders You might benefit from seeing a TMJ specialist if you’re experiencing: Jaw pain or soreness, especially in the morning or after eating Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in your jaw Difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully Frequent headaches or migraines Pain in the ears, neck, or face A locked jaw (open or closed position) 👨‍⚕️ Why You Need a TMJ Specialist — Not Just a Dentist A lot of people think TMJ pain is a dental issue, but it’s far more complex than that. TMJ disorders often involve the muscles, joints, nerves, and more — which means they require a broader, more specialized approach than a standard dental exam. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Bloxham uses a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that focuses on identifying the true root of your TMJ symptoms. We don’t just mask the pain — we treat the cause. 💡 What to Expect at Your First Visit When you come to see Dr. Jared Bloxham, a TMJ doctor at our clinic, here’s what your visit will include: Detailed Health & Pain History Review: We listen to your full story — symptoms, sleep habits, injury history, and more. Digital Imaging (Cone Beam CT) : This 3D-imaging gives us a good look at the jaw bone & supporting structures of your face and allows us to see if there is any bone damage or disc dysfunction. TMJ & Muscle Exam : To check for tenderness, movement limitations, and muscle involvement. Custom Treatment Plan : Including options like oral appliances, myofascial trigger point therapy, or lifestyle modifications. ✅ Non-Surgical TMJ Treatments That Work Many patients are relieved to know that most TMJ cases can be treated without surgery. We offer: Custom oral appliances (orthotic splints) Myofascial pain injections Sleep and stress management tools 📍 Serving Tri-Cities WA and Beyond If you’re in Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, or surrounding areas and are searching for a trusted “TMJ doctor near me,” Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ is here for you. Our goal is simple: helping you become you again — pain-free, rested, and confident. 📞 Ready to Take the First Step? Let’s get to the bottom of your jaw pain — and finally do something about it. 👉 Call us today at (509) 581-4456 or request information online to schedule your TMJ consultation.
May 16, 2025
If you’ve been searching for how to fix TMJ pain without surgery near me , you’re probably tired of living with jaw pain, headaches, clicking sounds, and disrupted sleep. The good news? Surgery isn’t your only option. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Pasco, WA, we specialize in non-surgical TMJ treatments that work — helping you find real relief safely, effectively, and without invasive procedures. 🦷 What Causes TMJ Pain? TMJ pain comes from dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint — the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. Stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw misalignment, muscle tightness, facial trauma, and even poor sleep habits can all contribute. Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include: Jaw stiffness or locking Clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth Facial, ear, or neck pain Frequent headaches or migraines Difficulty chewing or talking comfortably 🚫 Why We Avoid Surgery Whenever Possible TMJ surgery is rarely needed . In fact, major medical organizations recommend conservative, reversible treatments first because many TMJ issues respond extremely well to less invasive care. Surgery can carry risks like permanent nerve damage, worsening symptoms, and long recovery times — which is why at Columbia Center, we focus on non-surgical success stories. 🛠️ How We Fix TMJ Pain Without Surgery If you’re wondering how to fix TMJ pain without surgery near me , here’s what you can expect when you work with us: 1. Custom Oral Appliances These aren’t just mouthguards — they’re custom-fabricated devices that unload your jaw joint and allow for healing to take place, reduce muscle tension, and protect your joints from clenching or grinding damage. 2. Myofascial Trigger Point Injections Targeted injections can release tight jaw muscles and dramatically relieve TMJ-related pain without surgery. 3. Lifestyle and Sleep Adjustments Sometimes small changes — like adjusting sleep position, managing stress, or modifying diet — can make a huge difference. We coach you through practical strategies that fit your life. 4. Monitoring and Support We don't just send you home and hope for the best. Our team stays with you through the process, adjusting your treatment as needed to ensure you keep improving. 📍 Serving Patients in Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and Beyond If you’re typing “how to fix TMJ pain without surgery near me” into Google, we want you to know you have an expert team right here in the Tri-Cities ready to help you heal — without the fear or cost of surgery. 💬 Real Patient Success Story "Dr. Jared Bloxham explained everything in detail with me about what was going on with my arthritic jaw. X Rays were taken to rule out TMJ. We have at least a plan for what he will do. Excellent doctor with compassion for his patients." – Meleen A., WA 📞 Ready to Find Relief Without Surgery? Take the first step toward feeling like yourself again. Call (509) 581-4456 or schedule your consultation online today. Your jaw deserves to move freely — and your life deserves to be pain-free.
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