Understanding Bruxism: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Find Relief from Chronic Migraines with a Local Specialist in the Tri-Cities

October 27, 2025

If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines that interfere with your daily life, you’re not alone. Chronic head pain affects millions of people — and often, the true source of the problem is overlooked. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ , we’re here to help patients in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland find long-lasting relief through advanced, targeted care. Meet Your Local Specialist – Dr. Jared Bloxham Our practice is led by Dr. Jared Bloxham , a licensed Orofacial Pain Specialist with advanced training in the diagnosis and management of migraines and related facial pain disorders. Unlike general practitioners, an orofacial pain specialist focuses specifically on the complex relationship between the jaw, muscles, nerves, and head — often uncovering causes of head and facial pain that others might miss. Dr. Bloxham proudly serves patients throughout Eastern Washington , providing compassionate, personalized care to help you take control of your pain and restore your quality of life. Understanding Orofacial Pain and Migraines Migraines and chronic headaches can stem from a variety of underlying issues, including: TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders Muscle tension and jaw clenching Nerve irritation or inflammation Sleep disorders , such as sleep apnea Bite or jaw alignment problems Because orofacial pain often overlaps with migraine symptoms, it’s important to work with a specialist who understands both the muscular and neurological aspects of your pain. Dr. Bloxham’s expertise allows him to identify the root causes of your headaches — not just manage the symptoms. Comprehensive Migraine Treatment Close to Home At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ , we offer a range of non-invasive, evidence-based treatments to help reduce headache frequency and intensity. Depending on your unique needs, Dr. Bloxham may recommend: Injections to relax jaw muscles or reduce tension Targeted muscle therapy to alleviate strain and inflammation Lifestyle and sleep assessments to identify contributing factors Collaborative care with your medical provider for complex cases Our goal is to create a personalized treatment plan that helps you live with fewer headaches — and more comfort. Serving the Tri-Cities and Eastern Washington Conveniently located to serve patients in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland , our clinic provides advanced migraine and orofacial pain care right here in the Tri-Cities . You don’t have to travel far to find expert, specialized treatment — relief is available locally, from a doctor who understands your needs. Take the First Step Toward Relief If you’re living with frequent headaches or migraines, help is closer than you think. Contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham , Eastern Washington’s trusted migraine and orofacial pain specialist. 📍 Serving patients in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and throughout Eastern Washington 📞 Call today to schedule your appointment and start your journey to a pain-free life.

Find Lasting Relief from Jaw Pain with Expert TMJ Treatment in the Tri-Cities

October 24, 2025

If you experience jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or difficulty opening your mouth, you may be suffering from TMJ disorder (temporomandibular joint disorder). At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders with precision, compassion, and advanced expertise — right here in Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland. Meet Your Local TMJ Specialist – Dr. Jared Bloxham Our practice is led by Dr. Jared Bloxham, a licensed Orofacial Pain Specialist with extensive training in the management of TMJ disorders and related facial pain conditions. Dr. Bloxham has dedicated his career to helping patients throughout Eastern Washington find effective, lasting relief from chronic jaw and facial discomfort. With his specialized background in orofacial pain, Dr. Bloxham offers a level of expertise not commonly found in general dental or medical offices — making Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ a trusted destination for TMJ treatment in the Tri-Cities area. Understanding TMJ Disorders The temporomandibular joints are the small, complex joints that connect your jawbone to your skull. When these joints or the surrounding muscles become irritated or misaligned, it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including: Jaw pain or stiffness Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your mouth Headaches or facial pain Earaches or ringing in the ears Difficulty chewing or speaking If left untreated, TMJ disorders can worsen over time, affecting your quality of life and ability to eat, speak, or rest comfortably. Personalized TMJ Treatment Close to Home At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we understand that every patient’s symptoms and causes are unique. That’s why Dr. Bloxham provides personalized, evidence-based TMJ care tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include: Custom oral appliances or splints to support jaw alignment Therapeutic exercises to improve joint function Pain management strategies and lifestyle guidance Collaboration with medical specialists for complex cases Our goal is to reduce your pain, restore normal jaw function, and help you return to a more comfortable, pain-free life. Serving the Eastern Washington Community Conveniently located for patients in Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland, our clinic proudly serves the entire Eastern Washington region. You don’t have to travel far to receive expert TMJ care — advanced treatment is available right here in your local community. Take the First Step Toward Relief If you’re tired of living with jaw pain, tension headaches, or discomfort when chewing, we’re here to help. Contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham and learn how our specialized TMJ treatments can restore your comfort and improve your daily life. 📍 Serving patients in Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and throughout Eastern Washington 📞 Call today to schedule your TMJ evaluation and take the first step toward relief.

Rest Easy: Local Sleep Apnea Treatment Now Available in the Tri-Cities

October 20, 2025

If you’re struggling with snoring, restless nights, or daytime fatigue, you may be suffering from sleep apnea — a serious condition that affects your breathing while you sleep. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we are proud to provide effective, comfortable, and local treatment options for patients in Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco. Meet our Doctor Our clinic is led by Dr. Jared Bloxham, a licensed Orofacial Pain Specialist dedicated to helping patients throughout Eastern Washington sleep and live better. With advanced training in the management of sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, and related conditions, Dr. Bloxham takes a compassionate, evidence-based approach to care that prioritizes both comfort and long-term results. A Better Way to Treat Sleep Apnea While traditional treatments like CPAP therapy can be effective, many patients find them difficult to tolerate. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we specialize in custom oral sleep appliances — small, comfortable devices that gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open throughout the night. These FDA-approved oral appliances offer: Improved comfort and portability compared to CPAP machines Reduced snoring and better sleep quality Ease of use while traveling Quiet, non-invasive therapy for both mild and moderate sleep apnea Why Choose a Local Provider? Getting care close to home means personalized attention, easier follow-ups, and a team that truly understands the needs of the Tri-Cities community. Whether you live in Richland, Kennewick, or Pasco, expert sleep apnea treatment is just a short drive away. Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep If you or a loved one experiences loud snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, or persistent tiredness, it may be time to explore your treatment options. Contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham and discover how a custom oral sleep appliance can help you breathe — and sleep — better. 📍 Conveniently located in the heart of Eastern Washington, serving Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco 📞 Call us today to learn more or request your appointment!

Snoring: Causes, Risks, and Solutions with Dr. Jared Bloxham

September 22, 2025

Snoring may seem like a harmless nighttime nuisance, but it can be a signal of deeper health concerns. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham helps patients understand the causes of snoring and offers effective treatments to improve sleep quality, health, and overall well-being. What Causes Snoring? Snoring occurs when airflow through the nose and mouth is partially blocked during sleep, causing throat tissues to vibrate. Several factors can contribute: Sleeping Position: Lying on your back can allow the tongue and soft tissues to collapse into the airway. Excess Weight: Extra tissue around the neck can narrow the airway and increase snoring. Nasal Congestion: Allergies or colds can force mouth breathing, increasing the likelihood of snoring. Alcohol and Sedatives: These relax throat muscles, which may obstruct airflow. Age: Throat muscles lose tone over time, making snoring more common. Signs You Might Be Snoring Loud, persistent breathing noises during sleep Gasping or choking during the night Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning Restless sleep or frequent nighttime awakenings Excessive daytime fatigue Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent long-term complications. Health Risks Linked to Untreated Snoring Ignoring snoring can affect both your sleep and overall health. Dr. Bloxham emphasizes that untreated snoring may contribute to: Sleep Apnea: Repeated airway obstruction can lower oxygen levels and stress the heart. Cardiovascular Issues: Chronic snoring and sleep apnea increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Daytime Fatigue: Poor sleep impairs focus, alertness, and performance. Mental Health Concerns: Sleep disruption can increase irritability, anxiety, and depression. Metabolic Problems: Sleep deprivation can affect blood sugar regulation, raising the risk for type 2 diabetes. Addressing snoring promptly is key to reducing these health risks. How Snoring Affects Daily Life and Relationships Snoring impacts not only the person sleeping but also their loved ones. Daily Life: Fatigue: Chronic sleep disruption leaves you feeling sluggish. Reduced Productivity: Poor concentration and alertness affect work and daily tasks. Mood Swings: Sleep loss can trigger irritability and stress. Relationships: Partner Disruption: Loud snoring can disturb a partner’s sleep, causing shared fatigue. Tension: Lack of rest may lead to irritability and increased conflicts. Sleep Separation: Severe snoring sometimes forces couples to sleep apart, affecting intimacy. Effective Solutions for Snoring Dr. Bloxham offers personalized treatment plans that range from lifestyle adjustments to specialized devices: Lifestyle Strategies: Side Sleeping: Prevents the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing backward. Weight Management: Reduces excess tissue around the airway. Limit Alcohol & Sedatives: Keeps throat muscles from over-relaxing. Medical Devices and Therapies: Oral Appliances: Custom devices that reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. Nasal Devices: Strips or dilators to improve nasal airflow. Advanced Therapies: In select cases, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended. By combining these strategies, patients often experience improved sleep, reduced snoring, and better overall health. Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep Snoring is more than an annoyance—it’s a sign your body may not be getting the rest it needs. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides expert evaluation and treatment to help you breathe easier and sleep more soundly. If snoring is affecting your health, energy, or relationships, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation today and discover personalized solutions to improve your sleep and overall well-being. 📍 Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com | 📞 509-581-4456

Are You Experiencing TMD? Discover Relief in the Tri-Cities, WA

September 19, 2025

Do you frequently wake up with unexplained headaches, jaw pain, or facial discomfort? These could be signs of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), a condition that affects millions of adults yet often goes undiagnosed. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham specializes in diagnosing and treating TMD, helping patients regain comfort and improve their quality of life. What is TMD? TMD, also called temporomandibular joint disorder, impacts the TMJ—the ball-and-socket joint connecting your lower jaw to your skull. You can feel this joint move by placing your fingers near your ears while opening and closing your mouth. TMD doesn’t just affect the joint itself; it can also cause tension in the jaw and facial muscles, often leading to myofascial pain. When left untreated, patients may struggle with simple daily activities such as chewing, speaking, and swallowing, and often live in chronic discomfort. Common Symptoms of TMD Millions of adults experience TMD, yet many never receive a proper diagnosis. Its symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, leaving patients frustrated by ineffective treatments. Key signs to watch for include: Jaw pain or discomfort Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw Teeth grinding or clenching Headaches, neck, or shoulder pain Ear discomfort, ringing, or fullness Difficulty chewing or swallowing Myofascial pain in the jaw, face, or neck If you notice one or more of these symptoms, it may be time for a professional evaluation. How We Help Patients in the Tri-Cities At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Bloxham offers personalized TMD treatments that focus on relieving pain and restoring proper jaw function. Our conservative treatment options include: Custom TMJ oral appliances to reduce jaw strain and prevent teeth grinding Trigger point injections for targeted muscle pain relief Low-level laser therapy to decrease inflammation PRF injections to support joint healing Guided exercises to improve jaw mobility and reduce myofascial pain Take the First Step Toward Comfort If you or a loved one are experiencing jaw pain, headaches, facial discomfort, or myofascial pain in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, or nearby Tri-Cities communities, don’t wait to get help. Contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham. 📞 Call today to learn how we can help you reduce TMD pain, improve jaw function, and enhance your quality of life. 509-581-4456

Understanding Sleep Apnea and Why Treatment Matters

September 15, 2025

Sleep apnea is more than just disruptive snoring. It’s a medical condition that prevents the body from getting deep, restorative rest. For many, each night brings pauses in breathing, gasping for air, and restless sleep—followed by mornings filled with fatigue, poor focus, and low energy. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham helps patients uncover the underlying cause of sleep-disordered breathing and guides them toward effective treatment options. By addressing sleep apnea early, you can protect your health and reclaim your energy. What Exactly Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea happens when airflow is repeatedly blocked during sleep. This may be due to a narrowed or collapsed airway (obstructive sleep apnea) or, less commonly, the brain not sending the correct breathing signals (central sleep apnea). People often live with sleep apnea without realizing it. If you find yourself constantly tired, unfocused, or waking up unrefreshed, it could be the result of these nighttime breathing disruptions. Warning signs to watch for include: Loud, ongoing snoring Waking suddenly with a choking or gasping sensation Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning Frequent morning headaches Difficulty staying asleep Excessive tiredness during the day These symptoms do more than disturb your rest—they can interfere with your daily life, relationships, and long-term health. Why Untreated Sleep Apnea Is a Serious Risk Ignoring sleep apnea can take a toll on both your body and mind: Cardiovascular Stress – Breathing interruptions reduce oxygen levels, putting strain on your heart and raising the risk of arrhythmias, heart attack, or stroke. High Blood Pressure – Oxygen dips during sleep can cause spikes in blood pressure, which may lead to chronic hypertension. Emotional & Mental Strain – Lack of quality sleep can increase irritability, mood swings, and the risk of anxiety or depression. Reduced Daytime Performance – Daytime drowsiness makes it harder to focus, lowering productivity and sometimes creating safety risks (like drowsy driving). Dr. Bloxham emphasizes that while snoring may seem harmless, sleep apnea has far-reaching effects on your overall health if left untreated. Spotting the Condition Early Recognizing the warning signs is the first step toward better sleep. Persistent snoring, frequent awakenings, or unexplained fatigue are strong indicators that something more than “just snoring” is going on. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Bloxham provides comprehensive evaluations that take into account your airway health, dental concerns, and TMJ function to create a complete picture of your sleep health. Treatment Options at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ The right treatment depends on your unique needs. At our office, care is centered around comfortable, effective, and non-invasive solutions: Custom Oral Appliances – Small, comfortable devices that reposition the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. These are a proven alternative to CPAP machines for many patients. Integrated TMJ & Orofacial Pain Care – Because jaw joint problems and airway issues are often linked, Dr. Bloxham’s specialized training ensures your appliance is designed with your jaw health in mind. Collaborative Approach – When necessary, we partner with medical providers to make sure every aspect of your sleep apnea treatment is addressed. Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep Getting treatment for sleep apnea can transform the way you feel each day. Patients often notice improved energy, sharper focus, and better moods once they begin addressing their sleep disorder. If you’re ready to stop feeling tired and start experiencing restful nights again, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ. Together, we’ll find the right solution to help you breathe easier, sleep soundly, and protect your long-term health. 📍 Serving Kennewick, Richland, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com

Myofascial Pain, TMJ, and Headache Relief in the Tri-Cities, WA

September 12, 2025

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a common condition causing chronic muscle pain, tension, and discomfort in the muscles and surrounding connective tissue, called fascia. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham helps patients manage myofascial pain, TMJ disorders, and related headaches and migraines, offering personalized treatment plans for long-lasting relief. What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome? MPS occurs when sensitive areas in the muscles, known as trigger points, become inflamed or tense. These trigger points—often called muscle knots—can cause: Localized pain in the affected muscle Referred pain that spreads to the head, jaw, neck, or face, often contributing to headaches and migraines Trigger points can be classified as: Latent Trigger Points: Dormant but can become painful under stress Active Trigger Points: Cause pain when stimulated Satellite Trigger Points: Reduce tension when near another trigger point Secondary Trigger Points: Develop in the same muscle as an active point, increasing discomfort Signs and Symptoms Myofascial pain and TMJ-related headaches can show up in many ways, including: Jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking Facial pain and tenderness Neck and shoulder tension Headaches or migraines triggered by jaw or neck strain Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) Reduced jaw mobility Patients often notice that headaches or migraines worsen after long periods of jaw tension or stress, highlighting the connection between MPS and craniofacial pain. How Myofascial Pain Contributes to TMJ and Headaches Tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles can trigger TMJ disorders, which frequently cause headaches and migraines. Chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching places extra stress on the temporomandibular joint, resulting in persistent pain that affects daily life, sleep, and overall well-being. Effective Treatments for Myofascial Pain, Headaches, and TMJ At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers a range of conservative, non-surgical treatments for myofascial pain, TMJ, and related headaches or migraines: Trigger Point Injections: Targeted therapy to relax tight muscles and reduce pain Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Non-invasive treatment to decrease inflammation and promote healing PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Therapy: Supports natural tissue regeneration and joint recovery Custom TMJ Oral Appliances: Reduce jaw strain, prevent teeth grinding, and alleviate tension headaches Guided Muscle Exercises: Stretching and strengthening techniques to relieve trigger points and improve function Each treatment plan is personalized to the patient’s symptoms, targeting both headache relief and TMJ pain relief. Why Early Treatment Matters Ignoring myofascial pain and TMJ-related headaches can lead to: Worsening headaches or migraines Chronic jaw and facial pain Disrupted sleep Reduced quality of life Early intervention helps reduce pain, restore proper muscle function, and prevent long-term complications. Take the First Step Toward Relief If you’re experiencing jaw pain, TMJ discomfort, headaches, migraines, or myofascial pain in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, or surrounding Tri-Cities, WA, contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today. Dr. Jared Bloxham will create a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain, improve sleep, and enhance your quality of life. 📞 Call now to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward headache relief, migraine management, and lasting comfort. (509) 581-4456

TMJ Treatment in Richland, WA – Lasting Relief with Dr. Jared Bloxham

September 8, 2025

Are you struggling with jaw pain, headaches, or clicking when you open your mouth? These could be signs of temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ disorder. This condition affects millions of people every year and can interfere with eating, speaking, and even sleeping comfortably. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham specializes in conservative and advanced TMJ treatment to help patients find long-term relief and improved quality of life. What Is TMJ Disorder? The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. When the joint or surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, it can lead to painful and frustrating symptoms, including: Jaw pain, stiffness, or tenderness Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw joint Headaches or migraines caused by muscle tension Earaches, ringing in the ears, or pressure near the jaw Difficulty chewing or fully opening your mouth TMJ disorders can be triggered by stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, or injury to the jaw joint. TMJ Treatment Options in Richland, WA At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Bloxham takes a personalized, patient-centered approach. Our goal is not only to manage your symptoms but also to address the root cause of your condition. Conservative TMJ Treatments Custom Oral Appliances – Designed to reduce pressure on the jaw joint and protect against teeth grinding. Jaw & Muscle Therapy Exercises – Improve mobility, release muscle tension, and support long-term relief. Lifestyle & Stress Management Strategies – Help patients reduce clenching and other habits that strain the TMJ. Advanced TMJ Therapies in Richland For patients who need additional relief, we also provide advanced therapies that promote healing and reduce pain without invasive surgery: Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) : Reduces inflammation, encourages tissue repair, and relieves discomfort. Trigger Point Injections : Target tense jaw muscles that contribute to pain and headaches. Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Therapy : Uses natural growth factors from your own blood to support healing of the jaw joint and surrounding tissues. By combining conservative and regenerative options, patients often achieve lasting relief and improved jaw function. Why Choose TMJ Treatment Early? If left untreated, TMJ disorder can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain, worn teeth, and further joint damage. Seeking care early from a TMJ specialist gives you the best chance at preventing complications and restoring comfort. Expert TMJ Specialist in Tri-Cities, WA At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham is dedicated to helping patients overcome TMJ disorder with effective, customized treatment plans. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, our team will guide you toward the right solution for your needs. Don’t let jaw pain control your life. Call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham and take the first step toward lasting relief. Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com | 📞 509-581-4456

Your Snoring Could Be Sleep Apnea – Expert Insight from Dr. Jared Bloxham

September 5, 2025

Snoring isn’t just a nighttime annoyance—it may be a clue to a deeper sleep issue. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Tri-Cities, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham helps patients understand when snoring signals a potentially serious condition like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). If you’re struggling with snoring and waking up tired, it's time to take it seriously. Why Snoring Could Mean More Than Just Noise Snoring occurs when airflow through your nose or mouth is partly blocked during sleep, making throat tissues vibrate. This common sound, while harmless on its own, can point to obstructive sleep apnea—especially when accompanied by: Breathing pauses, gasping, or choking during sleep Daytime fatigue, poor concentration, morning headaches, or dry mouth Many people who snore don’t realize they may be at risk. That’s why Dr. Bloxham suggests you monitor your sleep to catch warning signs early. Simple Self-Checks to Know When to Act You can begin uncovering whether your snoring is more than just volume: Record Your Snoring: Use a smartphone to capture audio through the night. Listen for loud snoring, choking, or sudden pauses. Track Your Symptoms: Note daytime sleepiness, memory lapses, or irritability—besides being frustrating, these could hint toward sleep apnea. Talk to Your Partner (or a Smart Device): Whether it’s observed pauses in breathing or restless patterns, an outside perspective is invaluable. Risks of Ignoring Loud or Frequent Snoring Snoring linked to sleep apnea isn’t just disruptive—it can increase the risk of serious health problems, including: High blood pressure and heart disease Persistent fatigue, poor focus, and irritability Cognitive decline —studies have even connected sleep apnea and snoring to earlier onset of memory issues and mild cognitive impairment The earlier sleep apnea is addressed, the better your chances for sustained health and well-being. Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do Next 1. Schedule a Consultation Connect with Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for sleep apnea and TMJ for a comprehensive sleep evaluation. 2. Consider Diagnostic Testing A sleep study—either at home or in-lab—can assess your breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep stages. 3. Explore Treatment Options Personalized solutions may include: Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT): A custom sleep apnea appliance—sometimes called a dental sleep device or mandibular advancement device (MAD)—repositions the lower jaw slightly forward. This helps keep the airway open throughout the night, reducing snoring and apnea events. Oral appliances are FDA-approved, discreet, and often more comfortable than CPAP. Lifestyle Changes: Side-sleeping, weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bed, and better sleep posture CPAP or Other Therapies: For moderate-to-severe OSA, CPAP remains effective, though many patients prefer oral appliance therapy when CPAP is not tolerated 4. Monitor Progress: With treatment, most patients experience improved energy, better sleep, and reduced health risks. Take the First Step Toward Restful, Healthier Sleep If snoring is affecting your daily life—or that of your partner—don’t wait. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers expert, compassionate care to help you address the root causes of your snoring and sleep disruption. Schedule your consultation today and learn whether a custom sleep apnea appliance or another therapy is right for you. Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com | 📞 509-581-4456

TMJ Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options at Columbia Center

September 1, 2025

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are one of the most common sources of jaw and facial pain. This small but complex joint acts as a sliding hinge, connecting the jawbone to the skull and allowing us to chew, speak, and yawn with ease. When it isn’t working properly, the result can be daily discomfort that impacts eating, sleeping, and overall quality of life. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides advanced diagnosis and treatment for TMJ disorders, helping patients find lasting relief from jaw pain and its related symptoms. What Are TMJ Disorders? TMJ disorders (often called “TMD”) refer to a variety of conditions that affect how the jaw joint and surrounding muscles function. Problems in this area can range from mild soreness to significant pain that interferes with daily life. Common signs and symptoms include: Pain or tenderness around the jaw or ears Difficulty chewing, or discomfort while eating Headaches or facial muscle pain Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth Locking of the jaw, making it hard to open or close Symptoms may affect one or both sides of the jaw, and while some people experience occasional flare-ups, others live with chronic discomfort. TMJ disorders are also more common in women than men. Why Do TMJ Disorders Happen? Pinpointing a single cause of TMJ problems isn’t always easy. Often, multiple factors contribute, such as: Jaw injury or trauma Arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis) in the joint Clenching or grinding (bruxism), often linked to stress Disc displacement or damage to the cartilage that cushions the joint Understanding the source of your discomfort is the first step in creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs. How TMJ Disorders Are Diagnosed At the Columbia Center, Dr. Bloxham begins with a detailed medical and dental history, followed by a physical exam to evaluate jaw movement, listen for joint noises, and identify areas of pain. In some cases, imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to assess the joint and surrounding structures. If teeth grinding or bite misalignment is suspected, custom impressions may be taken to design an oral appliance. Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders Treatment is highly personalized, depending on the severity of the condition. Many patients find relief through conservative, non-invasive methods before surgical options are considered. Conservative treatments may include: Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants Stress management and relaxation techniques Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles Custom oral splints or nightguards to reduce clenching and protect teeth Advanced treatments may include: Joint injections to reduce pain and inflammation Arthrocentesis (joint flushing) to improve mobility Surgical procedures in severe cases, such as joint repair or replacement Most patients improve with conservative care alone, making invasive treatment unnecessary. Specialized TMJ Care at Columbia Center Dr. Bloxham’s expertise in TMJ and orofacial pain management allows him to provide targeted care that goes beyond basic dental treatments. Most patients benefit from non-invasive treatments that are designed to ease pain, protect the jaw joint, and improve function. Common approaches include: Custom oral appliances (splints or nightguards) to protect teeth and reduce strain on the joint Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): A gentle, non-invasive light therapy that reduces inflammation, improves circulation, and promotes tissue healing in the jaw muscles and joint. Trigger Point Injections: Targeted treatment to relax tight, painful jaw muscles and relieve referred pain to the head and neck. PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Therapy: A regenerative approach that uses your body’s natural growth factors to support healing and reduce inflammation in the TMJ region. For many patients, these methods are effective at managing symptoms without the need for invasive procedures. Finding Relief with Dr. Jared Bloxham Living with TMJ pain can feel overwhelming, but with the right care, you don’t have to let it control your life. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers advanced solutions designed to reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life. If you’re struggling with jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or other TMJ-related symptoms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll identify the cause of your discomfort and create a personalized plan for lasting relief. Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com | 📞 509-581-4456

What is Bruxism?

Common Causes of Bruxism:

Symptoms to Watch For:

Effective Treatments for Bruxism:

When to Seek Help:

Conclusion: