
Jaw pain, facial discomfort, and chronic headaches can disrupt your daily life, often leaving patients searching for answers. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, our Tri-Cities TMJ specialist provides expert diagnosis and treatment using both conservative therapies and advanced procedures like trigger point injections. Our approach prioritizes patient comfort, long-term relief, and a personalized care plan for each individual.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull, allowing essential movements for talking, chewing, and yawning. TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when this joint or the surrounding muscles become inflamed, misaligned, or overworked. Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Facial pain and tenderness
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully
Without proper treatment, TMJ disorder can worsen over time, affecting sleep, posture, and overall quality of life.
Conservative Therapy Options for TMJ Relief
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we prioritize non-invasive treatment options to relieve pain and restore function. Conservative therapies may include:
- Custom oral appliances: Designed to reduce jaw strain, prevent teeth grinding, and improve alignment
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen jaw muscles and improve mobility
- Lifestyle and behavioral strategies: Stress management, dietary modifications, and posture adjustments to reduce TMJ strain
- Medication management: Short-term use of anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants to reduce pain and inflammation
These therapies are often highly effective and serve as the foundation for a comprehensive TMJ treatment plan.
Trigger Point Injections: T argeted Relief for Muscle Pain
For patients with persistent muscle pain, trigger point injections (TPIs) are a safe and effective option. Trigger points are tight knots in the muscles that can contribute to:
- Facial and jaw pain
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Neck and shoulder discomfort
During a trigger point injection, a small amount of anesthetic is injected directly into the affected muscle, helping to:
- Relax tight muscles
- Reduce inflammation
- Interrupt pain signals
- Improve mobility and function
Combined with conservative therapies, trigger point injections can provide significant relief for patients struggling with chronic TMJ-related pain.
Why Choose Our Tri-Cities TMJ Specialist
Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ is a leading expert in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. His advanced training in orofacial pain and sleep medicine allows him to:
- Identify the root cause of jaw and facial pain
- Provide a tailored treatment plan for each patient
- Integrate conservative therapies with advanced interventions like TPIs
- Focus on long-term relief and overall quality of life
Patients from Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, Moses Lake, Benton City, Ephrata, and neighboring communities trust Dr. Bloxham for expert TMJ care.
Comprehensive Care for Long-Term Relief
Our clinic takes a holistic approach to TMJ treatment, addressing both the joint and the surrounding muscles. By combining conservative therapies with targeted interventions, we ensure patients experience:
- Reduced pain and muscle tension
- Improved jaw mobility and function
- Fewer headaches and migraines
- Better sleep and overall well-being
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Living with TMJ pain shouldn’t be your normal. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, our Tri-Cities TMJ specialist is dedicated to providing compassionate, effective care tailored to your needs.











