Learn what myofascial pain is, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Dr. Jared Bloxham provides comprehensive evaluation and care for myofascial pain, TMJ disorders, headaches, and facial pain in Richland, WA.

Many people assume TMJ disorders only cause jaw pain. In reality, problems involving the temporomandibular joints can affect much more than your jaw. If left untreated, TMJ disorders may contribute to chronic pain, changes in jaw function, and, in some cases, changes within the jaw joint itself. Early evaluation can help identify the cause of your symptoms and guide appropriate treatment. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , Dr. Jared Bloxham provides comprehensive care for patients experiencing TMJ disorders and other forms of orofacial pain. Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders TMJ symptoms vary from person to person and may include: Jaw pain or soreness Clicking or popping sounds Jaw locking Difficulty chewing Frequent headaches Facial pain Ear pain or ringing in the ears Neck stiffness Shoulder pain Morning jaw fatigue Teeth grinding or clenching Limited jaw opening Many patients are surprised to learn that chronic headaches or facial pain may be related to TMJ dysfunction rather than a neurological condition. Can TMJ Lead to Bone Changes? In some cases, TMJ disorders are associated with changes in the temporomandibular joint itself. Depending on the underlying cause, imaging studies may reveal wear, degeneration, or remodeling of the joint over time. Some patients may experience changes in the bone within the joint as part of degenerative joint disease or other TMJ conditions. Not every patient with TMJ develops these changes, but ongoing pain, limited jaw movement, or persistent joint symptoms should be evaluated promptly to help determine the cause and identify appropriate treatment options. How an Oral Orthotic Can Help One of the most common conservative treatments for TMJ disorders is a custom oral orthotic. Unlike over-the-counter night guards, a custom orthotic is designed specifically for your bite and jaw relationship. Depending on your diagnosis, an orthotic may help: Reduce stress on the jaw joints Decrease muscle tension Minimize clenching and grinding Improve jaw comfort Support more balanced jaw function Because every patient's condition is different, the type of appliance and treatment plan should be based on a thorough examination. Additional TMJ Treatment Options Treatment often involves more than one therapy. Depending on your diagnosis, Dr. Jared Bloxham may recommend: Custom oral orthotics Trigger point injections for muscle-related pain Jaw rehabilitation exercises Lifestyle and behavioral modifications Education on habits that may contribute to symptoms Ongoing monitoring and adjustments to your treatment plan The goal is to improve jaw function while helping reduce pain and inflammation. Why Specialized Care Matters TMJ disorders are often multifactorial, involving muscles, joints, nerves, and surrounding structures. As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Bloxham focuses on diagnosing these complex conditions and developing individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. This specialized approach helps ensure that treatment addresses the underlying source of discomfort rather than only the symptoms. Serving Patients Throughout the Tri-Cities and Beyond Conveniently located in Richland, Washington , Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ proudly serves patients from Kennewick, Pasco, West Richland, Benton City, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Basin City, Yakima, Walla Walla, Seattle , and surrounding communities across Eastern Washington and Northeastern Oregon. Patients seeking specialized care for jaw pain, headaches, facial pain, and TMJ disorders travel from throughout the region to receive personalized treatment. Find Relief from TMJ Pain If you're experiencing jaw pain, headaches, facial discomfort, or clicking and popping in your jaw, don't ignore the symptoms. Early diagnosis and conservative treatment may help improve your comfort and function before symptoms progress. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ to learn more about your treatment options, including custom oral orthotics, trigger point injections, and other individualized therapies. 

Stopped wearing your CPAP? Learn about the risks of untreated sleep apnea and discover custom oral sleep appliances from Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland.

If you've been living with headaches that keep coming back—or you've seen multiple providers without finding lasting answers—you know how frustrating chronic head pain can be. Many people search for a "headache doctor near me" after trying over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, chiropractic care, massage therapy, or other treatments with little success. While headaches are common, they are not all caused by the same condition. In many cases, pain may be related to the muscles, joints, nerves, or other structures of the face, jaw, head, and neck. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, Washington , Dr. Jared Bloxham, an orofacial pain specialist, provides comprehensive evaluations for patients experiencing chronic or undiagnosed headaches. His goal is to identify potential contributing factors and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis. Why Do Some Headaches Go Undiagnosed? Headaches can have many possible causes, and several different conditions can produce similar symptoms. While some headaches are primary headache disorders, others may be associated with problems involving the jaw joints, facial muscles, neck muscles, teeth, nerves, or other structures. If the underlying source of pain is not identified, treatment may only provide temporary relief. That's why a thorough evaluation is an important first step. Signs You Should Have Your Headaches Evaluated You may benefit from a comprehensive headache evaluation if you experience: Frequent headaches that continue despite treatment Daily or recurring headaches Morning headaches Headaches associated with jaw pain Facial pain or muscle tenderness Pain that worsens while chewing or talking Tension in the neck, shoulders, or jaw Clicking or popping of the jaw Headaches accompanied by teeth grinding or clenching Persistent headaches without a clear diagnosis These symptoms may—or may not—be related. A detailed examination can help determine whether disorders of the jaw, muscles, or surrounding structures could be contributing to your pain. A Comprehensive Approach to Headache Diagnosis As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham evaluates more than just where your head hurts. Your examination may include an assessment of: Jaw joint (TMJ) function Muscles of the face, jaw, head, and neck Bite and oral structures Muscle tenderness and trigger points Teeth grinding or clenching habits Previous imaging and medical history Current medications Lifestyle and symptom patterns This comprehensive evaluation helps identify potential contributing factors and can also help determine when referral to another healthcare provider may be appropriate. Personalized Treatment Options Because every patient's headaches are different, treatment is tailored to the underlying diagnosis rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on your evaluation, treatment may include: Trigger Point Injections For patients whose headaches are related to muscle tension or myofascial pain, trigger point injections may help reduce muscle tightness and relieve pain. Medication Review Sometimes medications themselves—or how they are being used—may influence headache patterns. Dr. Bloxham carefully reviews your current medications and medical history to better understand potential contributing factors. When appropriate, recommendations may be coordinated with your primary care provider or other members of your healthcare team. TMJ and Orofacial Pain Treatment If jaw disorders, muscle dysfunction, or related conditions are contributing to your headaches, treatment may include therapies designed to improve jaw function and reduce strain on the surrounding muscles. Individualized Care No two patients experience headaches in exactly the same way. Your treatment plan is based on your symptoms, examination findings, and overall health, with the goal of addressing contributing factors and improving your quality of life. Why Choose an Orofacial Pain Specialist? Headaches involving the face, jaw, and surrounding muscles can be complex. Dr. Jared Bloxham has advanced training in diagnosing and managing disorders affecting the jaw joints, facial muscles, nerves, and other structures involved in orofacial pain. This specialized expertise allows him to evaluate how these interconnected systems may be contributing to chronic headaches and facial pain. Rather than focusing only on symptom relief, he works to identify the factors that may be driving your pain and recommends evidence-based treatment options tailored to your needs. Conveniently Located in Richland, Serving the Tri-Cities and Beyond Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ is conveniently located in Richland, Washington , and proudly serves patients from Kennewick, Pasco, West Richland, Benton City, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Basin City, Walla Walla, Yakima, Hermiston, Pendleton, Seattle , and communities throughout Eastern Washington and Northeastern Oregon. Many patients travel to our office because they are seeking specialized evaluation for chronic headaches, facial pain, TMJ disorders, and other orofacial pain conditions. Find Answers for Chronic or Undiagnosed Headaches If you're searching for a headache doctor near Richland , treatment for undiagnosed headaches , or a provider who takes a comprehensive approach to evaluating head and facial pain, Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ is here to help. A careful evaluation by Dr. Jared Bloxham can help identify possible contributing factors and determine whether treatments such as trigger point injections, TMJ therapy, medication review, or other conservative approaches may be appropriate for your condition. Contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward understanding your headaches.

If you've been searching online for the "best TMJ specialist near me," you're likely dealing with persistent jaw pain, headaches, facial discomfort, or clicking and popping in your jaw. These symptoms can interfere with eating, speaking, sleeping, and your overall quality of life. Finding the right provider is one of the most important steps toward lasting relief. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, Washington , Dr. Jared Bloxham provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and orofacial pain. Patients travel from throughout the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities because of his focused expertise in diagnosing and managing these complex conditions.. Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders TMJ disorders can present in many different ways. Some of the most common symptoms include: Jaw pain or tenderness Clicking, popping, or grinding in the jaw Difficulty opening or closing the mouth Frequent headaches or migraines Ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ears Facial muscle pain Neck and shoulder tension Pain while chewing Jaw locking Teeth grinding or clenching Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, a comprehensive evaluation is important to determine the correct diagnosis. Comprehensive TMJ Treatment Options No two patients experience TMJ disorders in exactly the same way, which is why treatment should be individualized. Depending on your diagnosis, Dr. Bloxham may recommend one or more conservative treatment options, including: Custom oral orthotics (splints) Trigger point injections for muscle pain Jaw exercises and rehabilitation Lifestyle and habit modifications Coordination with other healthcare providers when appropriate Long-term management strategies for chronic orofacial pain The goal is to reduce pain, improve jaw function, and help you return to daily activities with greater comfort. Why Patients Choose Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ Patients often come to our office after trying multiple treatments without finding lasting relief. Our practice focuses on careful diagnosis, individualized treatment planning, and conservative therapies whenever appropriate. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr. Bloxham considers how your jaw joints, muscles, bite, and overall oral health work together to influence your symptoms. Conveniently Located in Richland, Serving the Tri-Cities and Beyond Our office is conveniently located in Richland, Washington , and proudly serves patients from Kennewick, Pasco, West Richland, Benton City, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Basin City, Walla Walla, Yakima, Hermiston, Pendleton, Seattle , and communities throughout Eastern Washington and Northeastern Oregon. Many patients travel to our office because they are looking for specialized TMJ care from an orofacial pain specialist. Schedule a TMJ Evaluation If you're searching for the best TMJ specialist near Richland, Kennewick, or Pasco , Dr. Jared Bloxham and the team at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ are here to help

If you've been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you've likely heard that a CPAP machine is considered the standard treatment. While CPAP therapy is highly effective for many people, it's not the right solution for everyone. Some patients struggle with the mask, pressure settings, noise, or simply find it difficult to sleep comfortably. Fortunately, there are other treatment options. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, Washington , Dr. Jared Bloxham provides custom-fabricated oral sleep appliances that are designed specifically for each patient's anatomy. These appliances offer a comfortable, portable treatment option for many patients with obstructive sleep apnea and chronic snoring. What Is a Custom Oral Sleep Appliance? A custom oral sleep appliance is a small device worn while you sleep that gently repositions the lower jaw and surrounding tissues to help keep the airway more open. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards or "boil-and-bite" devices, custom oral appliances are individually fabricated using precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth. This personalized fit is designed for comfort, durability, and effectiveness. Because every patient's airway is unique, customization is an important part of successful treatment. How Oral Appliance Therapy Works When muscles relax during sleep, the airway can become partially or completely blocked. This blockage contributes to breathing interruptions known as obstructive sleep apnea. A custom oral appliance works by: Supporting the lower jaw in a forward position Helping maintain a more open airway Reducing airway collapse during sleep Decreasing snoring for many patients Promoting more restful sleep The appliance is small enough to fit easily into a travel case, requires no electricity, and is easy to clean and maintain. Why Choose a Custom-Fabricated Appliance? Not all oral appliances are created equal. Dr. Jared Bloxham custom fabricates oral sleep appliances based on each patient's specific bite, jaw relationship, and treatment needs. A properly fitted appliance is generally more comfortable and allows for adjustments over time as needed. During treatment, patients are monitored to ensure the appliance continues to fit well and supports their treatment goals. Who May Benefit from Oral Appliance Therapy? Oral appliance therapy may be appropriate for patients who: Have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea Have been diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea but cannot tolerate CPAP (when appropriate and recommended by their healthcare team) Snore heavily Travel frequently Want a quieter, more portable treatment option Are looking for an alternative to CPAP after discussing options with their healthcare provider A comprehensive evaluation is the first step in determining whether oral appliance therapy is right for you. Why See an Orofacial Pain Specialist? Oral appliance therapy involves much more than simply making a mouthguard. As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham has advanced training in the relationship between the jaw joints, bite, muscles, airway, and oral structures. This specialized expertise helps ensure that each appliance is carefully designed with both comfort and function in mind. If you also experience TMJ symptoms, jaw discomfort, or facial muscle pain, those concerns can be considered as part of your treatment planning. Conveniently Located in Richland, Serving Patients Across the Region Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ proudly serves patients from Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, West Richland, Benton City, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Basin City, Yakima, Walla Walla, Hermiston, Pendleton, Seattle , and communities throughout Eastern Washington and Northeastern Oregon. Many patients travel to our office because they are looking for personalized sleep apnea care and alternatives to CPAP therapy. Schedule Your Consultation If you're looking for a comfortable alternative to CPAP, a custom oral sleep appliance may be an excellent option. Dr. Jared Bloxham will evaluate your condition, discuss your diagnosis, and determine whether oral appliance therapy is appropriate for your needs. Contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland today to learn more about custom oral sleep appliances for obstructive sleep apnea.

Are Tight Muscles Causing Your Pain? Do you experience frequent headaches, jaw pain, facial tenderness, neck stiffness, or muscle tension that never seems to go away? While many people assume these symptoms are simply caused by stress, they are often related to trigger points—tight, sensitive knots within muscles that can create pain throughout the head, face, neck, and jaw. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , Dr. Jared Bloxham offers trigger point injections as part of a comprehensive approach to treating orofacial pain and muscle dysfunction. These injections can help relieve chronic muscle tension, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life. What Are Trigger Point Injections? Trigger point injections are a minimally invasive treatment used to relax tight muscle fibers that contribute to pain and restricted movement. A small needle is inserted directly into the affected muscle, often with a local anesthetic or other appropriate medication, allowing the muscle to release and reducing pain. Unlike medications that simply mask symptoms, trigger point injections target the source of muscular pain. Many patients experience noticeable relief shortly after treatment, while others benefit from a series of injections as part of a personalized treatment plan. What Conditions Can Trigger Point Injections Help Treat? Trigger point injections are commonly recommended for patients experiencing: TMJ-related muscle pain Chronic headaches Tension headaches Facial pain Jaw pain and muscle fatigue Neck pain Shoulder tension Muscle spasms Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) Myofascial pain syndrome Because the muscles of the jaw, face, head, and neck work closely together, irritation in one area can often create pain in another. Addressing these trigger points can help interrupt that pain cycle. Signs You May Benefit From Trigger Point Injections You may be a candidate if you experience: Tender "knots" in your jaw, neck, or shoulders Frequent tension headaches Pain when chewing Facial soreness upon waking Clicking or discomfort in your jaw Chronic tightness despite massage or stretching Muscle pain that returns after temporary relief If these symptoms sound familiar, a thorough evaluation can determine whether trigger point injections are appropriate for your condition. Why Choose an Orofacial Pain Specialist? Not every provider who offers injections specializes in the complex muscles and joints of the face and jaw. Dr. Jared Bloxham focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders involving the jaw joints, facial muscles, head, neck, and oral structures. This specialized understanding allows him to identify the underlying causes of pain rather than simply treating the symptoms. Every patient receives a comprehensive examination before treatment to ensure trigger point injections are used only when clinically appropriate and as part of an individualized care plan. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr. Bloxham considers how your muscles, jaw joints, bite, sleep health, and daily habits may all contribute to your discomfort. Trigger Point Injections Are Just One Part of Comprehensive Care At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, trigger point injections are often combined with other therapies when appropriate, including: TMJ treatment Oral appliance therapy Muscle rehabilitation Home stretching exercises Lifestyle recommendations Sleep apnea evaluation when indicated Treating the underlying cause of muscle dysfunction often leads to longer-lasting relief than treating pain alone. Frequently Asked Questions Are trigger point injections painful? Most patients describe the procedure as a brief pinch followed by pressure. Treatment is typically completed within a few minutes. How long does relief last? Relief varies depending on the individual, underlying condition, and contributing factors. Some patients experience improvement within hours or days, while others may benefit from ongoing treatment as recommended by Dr. Bloxham. Are trigger point injections safe? When performed by a qualified healthcare professional after an appropriate evaluation, trigger point injections are generally considered a safe treatment option. Your medical history and symptoms will be reviewed to determine whether they are appropriate for you. Will I need more than one treatment? Some patients improve after a single visit, while others benefit from multiple treatments combined with additional therapies to address the source of their muscle pain. Schedule Your Consultation If chronic headaches, facial pain, jaw discomfort, or muscle tension are interfering with your daily life, you don't have to continue living with the pain. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , Dr. Jared Bloxham provides comprehensive evaluations to identify the source of your discomfort and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include trigger point injections. Whether your pain is related to TMJ dysfunction, muscle tension, or chronic headaches, we're here to help you find lasting relief. Contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ today to schedule your consultation and learn whether trigger point injections are right for you. Conveniently Located in Richland, Serving Patients Throughout the Pacific Northwest Located in Richland, Washington , Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ proudly serves patients throughout the Tri-Cities and beyond. Many of our patients travel to see Dr. Jared Bloxham from Kennewick, Pasco, West Richland, Benton City, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Basin City, Walla Walla, Yakima, Hermiston, Pendleton, and other communities throughout Eastern Washington and Northeastern Oregon . Patients also make the trip from Seattle and Western Washington when seeking specialized care for TMJ disorders, chronic headaches, facial pain, muscle tension, and other complex orofacial pain conditions. Because orofacial pain requires specialized diagnosis and treatment, many patients are willing to travel to receive care from a provider whose practice is dedicated to these conditions. Whether you're experiencing persistent jaw pain, frequent headaches, facial muscle tension, or symptoms related to TMJ dysfunction, our team is committed to helping patients throughout the region find lasting relief through personalized treatment options, including trigger point injections.

Looking for an Alternative to CPAP? For many patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is often the first treatment option recommended. While CPAP can be effective, not every patient finds it comfortable or easy to use consistently. If you've been prescribed oral appliance therapy and are looking for a custom solution, it's important to understand that success depends on much more than simply receiving a device. At our Richland, Washington office, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides custom-fabricated oral appliances designed around each patient's unique anatomy, jaw function, and treatment goals. As the region's Orofacial Pain Specialist, he takes a comprehensive approach that prioritizes both effective treatment and long-term oral health. We proudly serve patients throughout Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Benton City, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah. Why Custom Oral Appliances Work During sleep, the muscles that support the airway naturally relax. For patients with obstructive sleep apnea, this relaxation can contribute to airway narrowing and breathing interruptions. Oral appliance therapy works by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward during sleep. This forward positioning can help create more space within the airway and support improved airflow throughout the night. The key is finding the right balance. Moving the jaw too little may limit effectiveness. Moving it too aggressively may create unnecessary strain on the muscles and joints. This is why proper appliance design and ongoing monitoring are so important. Your Anatomy Matters No two patients have the same airway, jaw position, bite relationship, or facial structure. That's why Dr. Bloxham custom fabricates each appliance specifically for the individual wearing it. Before treatment begins, several factors are carefully evaluated, including: Jaw mobility Bite alignment Muscle function Oral anatomy Existing TMJ concerns Comfort requirements Long-term treatment goals This individualized process helps create an appliance that fits comfortably while supporting successful treatment outcomes. The Jaw Doesn't Stay in Its Natural Position Overnight One of the most important aspects of oral appliance therapy is something many patients are never told. While you're sleeping, the appliance is intentionally holding your jaw in a forward position for several hours at a time. This forward positioning changes how the muscles function during sleep and temporarily affects how the teeth come together when the appliance is removed in the morning. For some patients, this may result in: Jaw stiffness Bite changes upon waking Muscle fatigue Joint discomfort These effects are often temporary, but they should never be ignored. A knowledgeable provider understands how to help patients manage these changes and protect long-term jaw health. Why Bite Recapture Is So Important One of the most overlooked aspects of oral appliance therapy is helping the jaw return to its normal position after nightly use. At our office, patients receive guidance and tools designed to help recapture their natural bite relationship after removing their appliance. This process helps encourage: Comfortable jaw function Healthy muscle activity Stable bite relationships Long-term treatment success Reduced strain on the TMJ joints Dr. Bloxham believes oral appliance therapy should not only help patients sleep better—it should also support the long-term health of the entire jaw system. Expertise Beyond the Appliance Many providers can deliver an oral appliance. What sets specialized care apart is understanding how the appliance interacts with the muscles, joints, teeth, and surrounding structures over time. As an Orofacial Pain Specialist, Dr. Bloxham has advanced training in: Jaw function TMJ disorders Facial muscles Bite stability Oral appliance therapy Long-term joint health This expertise allows him to monitor treatment carefully and make adjustments when necessary to keep patients comfortable and functioning well. Personalized Care from Start to Finish Our goal is simple: create a treatment experience that is as individualized as the appliance itself. Patients appreciate that we take time to: Answer questions Explain treatment options Customize each appliance Monitor progress Address concerns promptly Support long-term success We believe patients should understand not only what treatment is being provided, but why it matters. Serving Patients Across Washington and Beyond Our Richland office welcomes patients from throughout the Tri-Cities and surrounding regions, including: Richland Kennewick Pasco Benton City Moses Lake Ephrata Yakima Walla Walla Spokane We also serve patients traveling from: Idaho Oregon Utah Many individuals seek care with Dr. Bloxham because of his specialized knowledge of oral appliance therapy and Orofacial Pain conditions. Invest in Better Sleep—and Long-Term Comfort Choosing oral appliance therapy is about more than replacing CPAP. It's about finding a treatment solution that fits comfortably, supports your prescribed therapy goals, and protects your long-term oral health. Dr. Jared Bloxham combines personalized appliance fabrication with specialized expertise in jaw function and Orofacial Pain to help patients achieve treatment that works today and continues supporting their health in the future. Schedule a Consultation in Richland, WA If you've been prescribed oral appliance therapy and want a custom solution designed around your unique anatomy, Dr. Jared Bloxham can help. Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah, our office provides personalized oral appliance therapy focused on comfort, function, and long-term success. Contact us today to learn more about custom oral appliances and how individualized care can make all the difference.

A Comfortable Alternative for Patients Who Can't Tolerate CPAP Sleep is one of the most important factors in your overall health. Yet for many patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, getting effective treatment can be challenging. While CPAP therapy remains a common treatment option, not everyone can tolerate wearing a mask throughout the night. Difficulty sleeping with the device, discomfort, air leaks, and compliance challenges often leave patients searching for alternatives. At our Richland, Washington practice, Dr. Jared Bloxham works with patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and prescribed oral appliance therapy as part of their treatment plan. As the region's Orofacial Pain Specialist, Dr. Bloxham custom fabricates oral appliances designed around each patient's unique anatomy, helping support more comfortable and effective treatment. We proudly serve patients throughout Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Benton City, and neighboring communities across Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah. How Oral Appliance Therapy Works During sleep, the muscles throughout the body naturally relax. For some individuals, this relaxation can contribute to narrowing or collapse of the airway. Custom oral appliances work by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward while sleeping. This forward positioning can help maintain a more open airway and reduce airway obstruction during the night. The result may help support healthier breathing patterns while sleeping and provide an effective treatment option for patients who have been prescribed oral appliance therapy. Unlike generic devices purchased online, professionally fabricated appliances are carefully customized to each patient's oral structures, jaw position, and treatment needs. Why Jaw Position Matters The position of the jaw plays a significant role in oral appliance therapy. When the lower jaw is moved forward, the muscles, ligaments, and surrounding structures are functioning differently than they do during normal daytime activities. While this forward positioning can be beneficial for airway support during sleep, it also requires careful consideration to maintain long-term comfort and jaw health. This is where provider expertise becomes extremely important. A properly designed oral appliance should do more than simply reposition the jaw. It should also account for the long-term effects that overnight positioning may have on the bite, muscles, and temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Protecting Your Bite Is Part of the Treatment One aspect of oral appliance therapy that is often overlooked is what happens after you remove the appliance in the morning. Because the jaw has been held in a forward position throughout the night, some patients may temporarily notice changes in how their teeth come together when they wake up. Without proper guidance and management, these changes can sometimes contribute to discomfort or unwanted bite changes over time. At our practice, Dr. Bloxham takes this aspect of treatment very seriously. Patients are provided with the appropriate tools and instructions designed to help recapture their natural bite position after appliance use. This process helps encourage healthy jaw function and supports long-term comfort throughout treatment. Our goal is not only to help patients sleep better but also to help protect the health of their jaw joints, muscles, and bite relationship for years to come. Why Experience Matters in Oral Appliance Therapy Oral appliance therapy involves much more than creating a mouthpiece. Successful treatment requires an understanding of: Jaw function Bite relationships Muscle health Airway anatomy Temporomandibular joint health Long-term oral stability As an Orofacial Pain Specialist, Dr. Bloxham has advanced training in evaluating how these systems interact. This expertise allows him to carefully monitor treatment progress while helping patients maintain comfort and function throughout therapy. Custom Fabrication Designed for Your Anatomy Every oral appliance we provide is custom fabricated specifically for the individual patient. Your appliance is designed based on: Your jaw structure Your bite relationship Your oral anatomy Your comfort needs A personalized appliance typically offers a more precise fit, improved comfort, and better long-term wear compared to generic alternatives. Because no two patients are alike, customization remains one of the most important factors in successful treatment. Serving Patients Throughout the Pacific Northwest Patients travel to our Richland office from across the region seeking personalized oral appliance therapy and specialized care. We proudly serve: Richland Kennewick Pasco Benton City Moses Lake Ephrata Yakima Walla Walla Spokane As well as neighboring states including: Idaho Oregon Utah Many patients appreciate our detailed, patient-focused approach and commitment to long-term oral health throughout treatment. Better Sleep Starts with the Right Team If you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea and are struggling to tolerate CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy may be an option worth exploring with your healthcare team. Dr. Jared Bloxham combines advanced knowledge of jaw function, oral anatomy, and Orofacial Pain with personalized appliance fabrication to help patients receive treatment that prioritizes both effectiveness and long-term comfort. Because successful therapy isn't just about sleeping better tonight—it's about maintaining a healthy bite, comfortable jaw function, and sustainable treatment for years to come. Schedule a Consultation in Richland, WA If you have been prescribed oral appliance therapy and are looking for a custom solution tailored to your unique anatomy, Dr. Jared Bloxham can help. Serving patients throughout Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, Moses Lake, Ephrata, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah, our team is committed to providing personalized care and custom-fabricated oral appliances designed with your long-term comfort and oral health in mind. Contact our office today to learn more about oral appliance therapy and how customized treatment can support your journey toward better sleep.