TMJ Symptoms and Treatments

We can help!

At Oregon Sleep & TMJ, you'll work with a dedicated team that truly understands your struggle with TMJ disorders. Our goal is not just to provide temporary relief but to offer lasting solutions. Experience our regenerative, non-surgical care designed specifically for TMJ issues, moving you away from the path leading to surgery. We're committed to helping you live freely, enabling you to enjoy the foods you love without discomfort or restriction.


What is TMJ and its Symptoms?

TMJ Syndrome describes various problems you may experience with your jaw - muscles, teeth, and/or the jaw joints themselves. TMJ symptoms are diverse and can accompany or even mimic other conditions. These symptoms include:

  • jaw pain
  • jaw joint noises (clicking, popping, grinding) 
  • inability to fully open jaw 
  • difficulty in chewing
  • headaches
  • earaches 
  • teeth clenching or grinding
  • ear pain 
  • ringing in the ears
  • sensitive teeth 
  • broken teeth

Understanding these symptoms is the first step in seeking appropriate treatment for relief.

Some patients with TMJ also have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), and vice versa. Our doctor's combined focus on TMJ and Dental sleep medicine means we can provide customized care that manages both conditions, sometimes simultaneously, to effectively address unexplained pain and provide lasting relief.

Often referred to as the Great Imposter, TMJ can present pain that may not correspond directly to its source, often misleading in its origin and manifestation.

What Causes TMJ and How Can It Be Managed?

Understanding what causes TMJ disorder is crucial for effective management and treatment. TMJ disorders generally occur due to trauma, which may be acute, or develop over a long time.

ACUTE trauma can result from a blow to the head or face, sporting injury, auto accident, an extended dental procedure, or biting down improperly on a hard object.

Long-term, or CHRONIC trauma is typically due to habitual bruxism, the clenching and grinding of the teeth while sleeping, or jaw clenching during the daytime. Most TMJ cases involve some degree of bruxism, although not all people are aware this may be happening while asleep.

Our providers delve into the various causes, from stress-induced jaw clenching to structural issues, and offer targeted solutions for each patient.

TMJ Treatment & Comprehensive Care

Our doctors offer Personalized Care Plans, with a focus on improving your comfort and ability to chew or function normally. Our Care Plans are specific to each person's needs and may include Orthotic (splint) Therapy, "Regenerative TMJ Therapy," and working with other healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care.

Orthotic Therapy

TMJ Disorders are often effectively and conservatively managed with Dental Orthotics (splints). A Night Orthotic is used while sleeping, to protect the teeth and jaws from the damaging forces of Sleep Bruxism. A Day Orthotic may be recommended to manage habitual daytime clenching, an often-overlooked factor in TMJ pain.

If you have TMJ and Sleep Apnea, an Oral Appliance that helps improve your breathing and snoring may also help your TMJ symptoms. Our doctors understand the complexities of this situation and focus on managing both conditions simultaneously. We are dedicated to finding the right solution for you.

What is Regenerative Therapy and How Can it Help with TMJ?

Regenerative Medicine techniques such as PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin) and Stem Cell Therapy are showing great promise in helping heal damaged tissues, by stimulating the body's natural healing abilities.

Studies confirm regenerative therapy may help improve jaw opening, jaw popping or clicking, and jaw pain. This novel therapy offers a promising addition to our traditional conservative treatments and can reverse some of the accumulated damage that develops with TMJ.

Using Physical Therapy

Targeted Physical Therapy can be an invaluable addition to your comprehensive Care Plan. We work closely with physical therapists that focus on TMJ and refer to them as needed to enhance your healing journey and overall well-being. We are committed to providing integrated care to ensure your treatment allows for the best possible outcome.

Contact Us Today

  • 9900 SW Wilshire St #120
    Portland, OR 97225
  • 971.271.7478
  • 503.296.2967
  • 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    Monday - Thursday
  • 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    Friday