Blog

Blog

December 23, 2024
As the year comes to a close, it’s a great time to take control of chronic pain that may have been holding you back. TMJ pain can impact everything from chewing to talking, but there are effective treatments to help you start the new year pain-free. TMJ Treatment Options for Lasting Relief Custom Orthotic Therapy: Relieve pressure on the jaw joint and give it the chance to heal while being unloaded. Botox for TMJ: Alleviates muscle pain and can reduce headache symptoms for patients with TMJ-related pain. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine, practicing jaw exercises, and managing stress are small but powerful ways to help keep TMJ dysfunction symptoms in check.  Invest in Your Health There’s no better time to make a commitment to your health. If TMJ pain is affecting your quality of life, our specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, is here to help you find relief. Start the year off right with a personalized TMJ treatment plan.
December 16, 2024
The holiday season is filled with celebrations, but it can also bring plenty of stress. For those with TMJ, stress can trigger or worsen jaw pain, headaches, and tension. Here are a few ways to keep TMJ symptoms in check so you can enjoy the holidays pain-free. Holiday Tips for Managing TMJ Pain Eat Soft Foods : Opt for mashed potatoes, soft fruits, and holiday soups instead of crunchy snacks to avoid overworking your jaw. Take Breaks from Chewing Gum : Festive chewing can worsen jaw tension. Give your TMJ a break by skipping gum or chewy candies. Practice Relaxation : A few minutes of mindfulness or deep breathing can help relieve tension in the jaw and reduce pain. End the Year Pain-Free Don't let TMJ pain steal your holiday cheer. Our office offers personalized TMJ treatment options to help you feel your best during the holidays and into the new year.
December 9, 2024
Holiday travel can be challenging, especially for those with sleep apnea. CPAP machines are essential for many, but if you’re looking for a travel-friendly option, an oral sleep appliance might be the solution! Doesn’t take up much space - can fit in your toiletry bag or your purse! They don’t require electricity either! Sleep Apnea Travel Tips Consider an Oral Sleep Appliance: Custom oral sleep appliances from Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ are easier to travel with than CPAP machines and help keep your airway open, making them a practical solution for vacations. Plan for Overnight Stays : Whether staying with family or in a hotel, ensure you have everything you need for your treatment. Bringing your device will keep you on track with your sleep apnea management. Prioritize Your Sleep Health : Poor sleep quality can lead to fatigue, irritability, and even affect your immune system—so make sure your sleep apnea is well treated during holiday travels. Conclusion Oral sleep appliances are ideal for those who need a convenient, effective way to manage sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders while traveling. Schedule a consultation before the holidays to see if this could be your new go-to sleep solution - call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ today at 509-581-4456.
December 2, 2024
The holidays are meant to be restful, but for many, snoring and sleep apnea can disturb the peace of the season. If you or a loved one struggle with snoring, an oral appliance could be the answer to a “silent night” everyone can enjoy. How Oral Appliances Help Reduce Snoring Oral appliances are custom-fitted to keep your airway open while you sleep, effectively reducing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms. They’re portable, easy to use, and perfect for traveling during the holiday season. Give the Gift of Restful Sleep Imagine starting the new year well-rested! Schedule a consultation with our sleep apnea specialists to learn how an oral appliance can help everyone in the household get a peaceful night’s sleep.
November 25, 2024
Dr. Jared Bloxham brings specialized training and expertise in the treatment of TMJ disorders, sleep apnea with a CPAP alternative treatment, and headache & other neuropathic pain management. His commitment to patient-centered care, combined with advanced training in orofacial pain, allows him to deliver high-quality treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Specialized Care You Can Trust From innovative treatments like custom oral appliances for sleep apnea to Botox injections for chronic headaches, Dr. Bloxham offers effective, compassionate care. His dedication to ongoing education and patient wellness ensures that you receive the latest and most effective treatment options. Conclusion  When you choose Dr. Jared Bloxham, you’re partnering with a provider dedicated to specialized care in TMJ, myofascial pain, and headache treatment. Schedule your appointment today and experience expert care firsthand.
November 18, 2024
For chronic headache and migraine sufferers, Botox has emerged as a powerful treatment option. FDA-approved for managing severe migraines, Botox works by relaxing muscles and blocking pain signals, making it a highly effective headache treatment for those who haven’t found relief with traditional methods. Why Botox for Headache Treatment? Botox targets the source of headache pain, offering relief that lasts for months. It’s a low-maintenance solution with minimal downtime, making it a practical choice for those with busy lifestyles. It is a non-invasive treatment and allows you to stop in during your lunch break and find relief. Conclusion If you’re seeking headache treatment that goes beyond temporary relief, consider trigger point injection therapy. Contact us to learn more about how this treatment could help you take control of your migraines.
November 11, 2024
While CPAP therapy is the most common sleep apnea treatment, it’s not always the best fit for everyone. For patients looking for a more comfortable and convenient solution, oral appliances offer a reliable and travel-friendly alternative. Designed to keep your airway open while you sleep, oral appliances help reduce snoring and prevent breathing interruptions without the hassle of a CPAP machine. Why Choose an Oral Appliance?  Custom-fabricated by the region’s orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham, oral appliances are easy to wear, lightweight, and can make a significant difference in sleep quality. They’re ideal for those with obstructive sleep apnea or those who struggle with CPAP compliance. Conclusion Looking for a CPAP alternative for sleep apnea treatment? Call us today to learn more about our oral appliance options and experience better, more restful sleep.
November 4, 2024
Living with TMJ pain can disrupt daily activities, from eating to speaking comfortably. TMJ treatment options offer lasting relief and help prevent long-term damage. Our clinic provides a variety of treatments, including custom-fabricated orthotics, trigger point injections, heat therapy and stress management techniques designed to address the root causes of TMJ pain. As well as multidisciplinary treatment and working with other specialists and providers. Why TMJ Treatment Matters  Untreated TMJ disorders can lead to headaches, neck pain, and bone-on-bone damage. Our TMJ specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham, works closely with patients to identify the best treatment plan, ensuring that every approach is tailored to their unique needs. Conclusion Don’t let TMJ pain hold you back. Call for a consultation today to explore your options for effective, personalized TMJ treatment.
October 28, 2024
If you suffer from jaw pain, whether due to TMJ disorders or general discomfort, your diet plays a significant role in managing your symptoms. Certain foods can exacerbate the pain and inflammation, while others may provide relief. In this blog, we’ll discuss the foods to avoid to help ease jaw pain. Foods That Can Make Jaw Pain Worse: Hard Foods: Chewing tough foods like raw vegetables (carrots), nuts, or hard candies can strain your jaw muscles and worsen pain. Opt for softer, cooked veggies and seeds instead. Chewy Foods: Gum, taffy, or even chewy meats like steak require excessive jaw movement, which can increase discomfort. Stick to tender cuts of meat or foods that don’t require extended chewing. Crunchy Snacks: Chips, crackers, and even crispy toast can aggravate jaw pain. If you’re craving something crunchy, try soft snacks like applesauce or yogurt. Large Bites: Big sandwiches or burgers that require opening your mouth wide can stress your jaw. Try cutting your food into smaller pieces or opting for foods you can easily bite into. Caffeine and Sugary Foods: Caffeine and sugar can increase muscle tension and inflammation. If you’re prone to jaw pain, limit your intake of coffee, soda, and candy. What to Eat Instead: Soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, soups, and scrambled eggs are gentle on your jaw. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leafy greens, and fish rich in omega-3s can also help reduce inflammation and pain. Conclusion: Making mindful food choices is an important part of managing jaw pain. Avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy foods can prevent unnecessary strain on your jaw and reduce discomfort. Focus on a diet that soothes and supports jaw health to help you feel better sooner.
October 20, 2024
Sleep apnea is often misunderstood as a condition that affects only older, overweight men. However, this stereotype is far from the truth. Sleep apnea can affect people of all ages, genders, and body types. Let’s debunk the myth and discuss why it’s important for everyone to be aware of the signs and risks. Sleep Apnea Can Affect Anyone While obesity and age are risk factors, they are not the only ones. Sleep apnea is a disorder where the airway becomes obstructed during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing. It can occur in: Women: Hormonal changes during menopause can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. Young Adults: Sleep apnea can affect younger individuals, especially if they have a genetic predisposition or a narrow airway. Children: Children with enlarged tonsils or adenoids are at higher risk for sleep apnea, which can impact their growth and behavior. Athletes: Muscular people with larger necks or jaw structures may also be at risk, despite being fit. Why Everyone Should Be Aware Ignoring sleep apnea because you don’t “fit the profile” can lead to serious health consequences. Left untreated, sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, regardless of your age or weight. Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore Loud snoring or choking during sleep Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat Daytime fatigue or trouble concentrating Morning headaches Conclusion Sleep apnea doesn’t discriminate, and it’s essential to recognize the symptoms no matter your demographic. If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are struggling with your quality of sleep, talk with your primary care provider and seek a professional evaluation, regardless of age, gender, or body type!
More Posts
December 23, 2024
As the year comes to a close, it’s a great time to take control of chronic pain that may have been holding you back. TMJ pain can impact everything from chewing to talking, but there are effective treatments to help you start the new year pain-free. TMJ Treatment Options for Lasting Relief Custom Orthotic Therapy: Relieve pressure on the jaw joint and give it the chance to heal while being unloaded. Botox for TMJ: Alleviates muscle pain and can reduce headache symptoms for patients with TMJ-related pain. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine, practicing jaw exercises, and managing stress are small but powerful ways to help keep TMJ dysfunction symptoms in check.  Invest in Your Health There’s no better time to make a commitment to your health. If TMJ pain is affecting your quality of life, our specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, is here to help you find relief. Start the year off right with a personalized TMJ treatment plan.
December 16, 2024
The holiday season is filled with celebrations, but it can also bring plenty of stress. For those with TMJ, stress can trigger or worsen jaw pain, headaches, and tension. Here are a few ways to keep TMJ symptoms in check so you can enjoy the holidays pain-free. Holiday Tips for Managing TMJ Pain Eat Soft Foods : Opt for mashed potatoes, soft fruits, and holiday soups instead of crunchy snacks to avoid overworking your jaw. Take Breaks from Chewing Gum : Festive chewing can worsen jaw tension. Give your TMJ a break by skipping gum or chewy candies. Practice Relaxation : A few minutes of mindfulness or deep breathing can help relieve tension in the jaw and reduce pain. End the Year Pain-Free Don't let TMJ pain steal your holiday cheer. Our office offers personalized TMJ treatment options to help you feel your best during the holidays and into the new year.
December 9, 2024
Holiday travel can be challenging, especially for those with sleep apnea. CPAP machines are essential for many, but if you’re looking for a travel-friendly option, an oral sleep appliance might be the solution! Doesn’t take up much space - can fit in your toiletry bag or your purse! They don’t require electricity either! Sleep Apnea Travel Tips Consider an Oral Sleep Appliance: Custom oral sleep appliances from Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ are easier to travel with than CPAP machines and help keep your airway open, making them a practical solution for vacations. Plan for Overnight Stays : Whether staying with family or in a hotel, ensure you have everything you need for your treatment. Bringing your device will keep you on track with your sleep apnea management. Prioritize Your Sleep Health : Poor sleep quality can lead to fatigue, irritability, and even affect your immune system—so make sure your sleep apnea is well treated during holiday travels. Conclusion Oral sleep appliances are ideal for those who need a convenient, effective way to manage sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders while traveling. Schedule a consultation before the holidays to see if this could be your new go-to sleep solution - call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ today at 509-581-4456.
December 2, 2024
The holidays are meant to be restful, but for many, snoring and sleep apnea can disturb the peace of the season. If you or a loved one struggle with snoring, an oral appliance could be the answer to a “silent night” everyone can enjoy. How Oral Appliances Help Reduce Snoring Oral appliances are custom-fitted to keep your airway open while you sleep, effectively reducing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms. They’re portable, easy to use, and perfect for traveling during the holiday season. Give the Gift of Restful Sleep Imagine starting the new year well-rested! Schedule a consultation with our sleep apnea specialists to learn how an oral appliance can help everyone in the household get a peaceful night’s sleep.
November 25, 2024
Dr. Jared Bloxham brings specialized training and expertise in the treatment of TMJ disorders, sleep apnea with a CPAP alternative treatment, and headache & other neuropathic pain management. His commitment to patient-centered care, combined with advanced training in orofacial pain, allows him to deliver high-quality treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Specialized Care You Can Trust From innovative treatments like custom oral appliances for sleep apnea to Botox injections for chronic headaches, Dr. Bloxham offers effective, compassionate care. His dedication to ongoing education and patient wellness ensures that you receive the latest and most effective treatment options. Conclusion  When you choose Dr. Jared Bloxham, you’re partnering with a provider dedicated to specialized care in TMJ, myofascial pain, and headache treatment. Schedule your appointment today and experience expert care firsthand.
November 18, 2024
For chronic headache and migraine sufferers, Botox has emerged as a powerful treatment option. FDA-approved for managing severe migraines, Botox works by relaxing muscles and blocking pain signals, making it a highly effective headache treatment for those who haven’t found relief with traditional methods. Why Botox for Headache Treatment? Botox targets the source of headache pain, offering relief that lasts for months. It’s a low-maintenance solution with minimal downtime, making it a practical choice for those with busy lifestyles. It is a non-invasive treatment and allows you to stop in during your lunch break and find relief. Conclusion If you’re seeking headache treatment that goes beyond temporary relief, consider trigger point injection therapy. Contact us to learn more about how this treatment could help you take control of your migraines.
November 11, 2024
While CPAP therapy is the most common sleep apnea treatment, it’s not always the best fit for everyone. For patients looking for a more comfortable and convenient solution, oral appliances offer a reliable and travel-friendly alternative. Designed to keep your airway open while you sleep, oral appliances help reduce snoring and prevent breathing interruptions without the hassle of a CPAP machine. Why Choose an Oral Appliance?  Custom-fabricated by the region’s orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham, oral appliances are easy to wear, lightweight, and can make a significant difference in sleep quality. They’re ideal for those with obstructive sleep apnea or those who struggle with CPAP compliance. Conclusion Looking for a CPAP alternative for sleep apnea treatment? Call us today to learn more about our oral appliance options and experience better, more restful sleep.
November 4, 2024
Living with TMJ pain can disrupt daily activities, from eating to speaking comfortably. TMJ treatment options offer lasting relief and help prevent long-term damage. Our clinic provides a variety of treatments, including custom-fabricated orthotics, trigger point injections, heat therapy and stress management techniques designed to address the root causes of TMJ pain. As well as multidisciplinary treatment and working with other specialists and providers. Why TMJ Treatment Matters  Untreated TMJ disorders can lead to headaches, neck pain, and bone-on-bone damage. Our TMJ specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham, works closely with patients to identify the best treatment plan, ensuring that every approach is tailored to their unique needs. Conclusion Don’t let TMJ pain hold you back. Call for a consultation today to explore your options for effective, personalized TMJ treatment.
October 28, 2024
If you suffer from jaw pain, whether due to TMJ disorders or general discomfort, your diet plays a significant role in managing your symptoms. Certain foods can exacerbate the pain and inflammation, while others may provide relief. In this blog, we’ll discuss the foods to avoid to help ease jaw pain. Foods That Can Make Jaw Pain Worse: Hard Foods: Chewing tough foods like raw vegetables (carrots), nuts, or hard candies can strain your jaw muscles and worsen pain. Opt for softer, cooked veggies and seeds instead. Chewy Foods: Gum, taffy, or even chewy meats like steak require excessive jaw movement, which can increase discomfort. Stick to tender cuts of meat or foods that don’t require extended chewing. Crunchy Snacks: Chips, crackers, and even crispy toast can aggravate jaw pain. If you’re craving something crunchy, try soft snacks like applesauce or yogurt. Large Bites: Big sandwiches or burgers that require opening your mouth wide can stress your jaw. Try cutting your food into smaller pieces or opting for foods you can easily bite into. Caffeine and Sugary Foods: Caffeine and sugar can increase muscle tension and inflammation. If you’re prone to jaw pain, limit your intake of coffee, soda, and candy. What to Eat Instead: Soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, soups, and scrambled eggs are gentle on your jaw. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leafy greens, and fish rich in omega-3s can also help reduce inflammation and pain. Conclusion: Making mindful food choices is an important part of managing jaw pain. Avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy foods can prevent unnecessary strain on your jaw and reduce discomfort. Focus on a diet that soothes and supports jaw health to help you feel better sooner.
October 20, 2024
Sleep apnea is often misunderstood as a condition that affects only older, overweight men. However, this stereotype is far from the truth. Sleep apnea can affect people of all ages, genders, and body types. Let’s debunk the myth and discuss why it’s important for everyone to be aware of the signs and risks. Sleep Apnea Can Affect Anyone While obesity and age are risk factors, they are not the only ones. Sleep apnea is a disorder where the airway becomes obstructed during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing. It can occur in: Women: Hormonal changes during menopause can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. Young Adults: Sleep apnea can affect younger individuals, especially if they have a genetic predisposition or a narrow airway. Children: Children with enlarged tonsils or adenoids are at higher risk for sleep apnea, which can impact their growth and behavior. Athletes: Muscular people with larger necks or jaw structures may also be at risk, despite being fit. Why Everyone Should Be Aware Ignoring sleep apnea because you don’t “fit the profile” can lead to serious health consequences. Left untreated, sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, regardless of your age or weight. Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore Loud snoring or choking during sleep Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat Daytime fatigue or trouble concentrating Morning headaches Conclusion Sleep apnea doesn’t discriminate, and it’s essential to recognize the symptoms no matter your demographic. If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are struggling with your quality of sleep, talk with your primary care provider and seek a professional evaluation, regardless of age, gender, or body type!
More Posts

Recent Posts

December 23, 2024
As the year comes to a close, it’s a great time to take control of chronic pain that may have been holding you back. TMJ pain can impact everything from chewing to talking, but there are effective treatments to help you start the new year pain-free. TMJ Treatment Options for Lasting Relief Custom Orthotic Therapy: Relieve pressure on the jaw joint and give it the chance to heal while being unloaded. Botox for TMJ: Alleviates muscle pain and can reduce headache symptoms for patients with TMJ-related pain. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine, practicing jaw exercises, and managing stress are small but powerful ways to help keep TMJ dysfunction symptoms in check.  Invest in Your Health There’s no better time to make a commitment to your health. If TMJ pain is affecting your quality of life, our specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, is here to help you find relief. Start the year off right with a personalized TMJ treatment plan.
December 16, 2024
The holiday season is filled with celebrations, but it can also bring plenty of stress. For those with TMJ, stress can trigger or worsen jaw pain, headaches, and tension. Here are a few ways to keep TMJ symptoms in check so you can enjoy the holidays pain-free. Holiday Tips for Managing TMJ Pain Eat Soft Foods : Opt for mashed potatoes, soft fruits, and holiday soups instead of crunchy snacks to avoid overworking your jaw. Take Breaks from Chewing Gum : Festive chewing can worsen jaw tension. Give your TMJ a break by skipping gum or chewy candies. Practice Relaxation : A few minutes of mindfulness or deep breathing can help relieve tension in the jaw and reduce pain. End the Year Pain-Free Don't let TMJ pain steal your holiday cheer. Our office offers personalized TMJ treatment options to help you feel your best during the holidays and into the new year.
December 9, 2024
Holiday travel can be challenging, especially for those with sleep apnea. CPAP machines are essential for many, but if you’re looking for a travel-friendly option, an oral sleep appliance might be the solution! Doesn’t take up much space - can fit in your toiletry bag or your purse! They don’t require electricity either! Sleep Apnea Travel Tips Consider an Oral Sleep Appliance: Custom oral sleep appliances from Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ are easier to travel with than CPAP machines and help keep your airway open, making them a practical solution for vacations. Plan for Overnight Stays : Whether staying with family or in a hotel, ensure you have everything you need for your treatment. Bringing your device will keep you on track with your sleep apnea management. Prioritize Your Sleep Health : Poor sleep quality can lead to fatigue, irritability, and even affect your immune system—so make sure your sleep apnea is well treated during holiday travels. Conclusion Oral sleep appliances are ideal for those who need a convenient, effective way to manage sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders while traveling. Schedule a consultation before the holidays to see if this could be your new go-to sleep solution - call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ today at 509-581-4456.
December 2, 2024
The holidays are meant to be restful, but for many, snoring and sleep apnea can disturb the peace of the season. If you or a loved one struggle with snoring, an oral appliance could be the answer to a “silent night” everyone can enjoy. How Oral Appliances Help Reduce Snoring Oral appliances are custom-fitted to keep your airway open while you sleep, effectively reducing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms. They’re portable, easy to use, and perfect for traveling during the holiday season. Give the Gift of Restful Sleep Imagine starting the new year well-rested! Schedule a consultation with our sleep apnea specialists to learn how an oral appliance can help everyone in the household get a peaceful night’s sleep.
November 25, 2024
Dr. Jared Bloxham brings specialized training and expertise in the treatment of TMJ disorders, sleep apnea with a CPAP alternative treatment, and headache & other neuropathic pain management. His commitment to patient-centered care, combined with advanced training in orofacial pain, allows him to deliver high-quality treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Specialized Care You Can Trust From innovative treatments like custom oral appliances for sleep apnea to Botox injections for chronic headaches, Dr. Bloxham offers effective, compassionate care. His dedication to ongoing education and patient wellness ensures that you receive the latest and most effective treatment options. Conclusion  When you choose Dr. Jared Bloxham, you’re partnering with a provider dedicated to specialized care in TMJ, myofascial pain, and headache treatment. Schedule your appointment today and experience expert care firsthand.
November 18, 2024
For chronic headache and migraine sufferers, Botox has emerged as a powerful treatment option. FDA-approved for managing severe migraines, Botox works by relaxing muscles and blocking pain signals, making it a highly effective headache treatment for those who haven’t found relief with traditional methods. Why Botox for Headache Treatment? Botox targets the source of headache pain, offering relief that lasts for months. It’s a low-maintenance solution with minimal downtime, making it a practical choice for those with busy lifestyles. It is a non-invasive treatment and allows you to stop in during your lunch break and find relief. Conclusion If you’re seeking headache treatment that goes beyond temporary relief, consider trigger point injection therapy. Contact us to learn more about how this treatment could help you take control of your migraines.
November 11, 2024
While CPAP therapy is the most common sleep apnea treatment, it’s not always the best fit for everyone. For patients looking for a more comfortable and convenient solution, oral appliances offer a reliable and travel-friendly alternative. Designed to keep your airway open while you sleep, oral appliances help reduce snoring and prevent breathing interruptions without the hassle of a CPAP machine. Why Choose an Oral Appliance?  Custom-fabricated by the region’s orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham, oral appliances are easy to wear, lightweight, and can make a significant difference in sleep quality. They’re ideal for those with obstructive sleep apnea or those who struggle with CPAP compliance. Conclusion Looking for a CPAP alternative for sleep apnea treatment? Call us today to learn more about our oral appliance options and experience better, more restful sleep.
November 4, 2024
Living with TMJ pain can disrupt daily activities, from eating to speaking comfortably. TMJ treatment options offer lasting relief and help prevent long-term damage. Our clinic provides a variety of treatments, including custom-fabricated orthotics, trigger point injections, heat therapy and stress management techniques designed to address the root causes of TMJ pain. As well as multidisciplinary treatment and working with other specialists and providers. Why TMJ Treatment Matters  Untreated TMJ disorders can lead to headaches, neck pain, and bone-on-bone damage. Our TMJ specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham, works closely with patients to identify the best treatment plan, ensuring that every approach is tailored to their unique needs. Conclusion Don’t let TMJ pain hold you back. Call for a consultation today to explore your options for effective, personalized TMJ treatment.
October 28, 2024
If you suffer from jaw pain, whether due to TMJ disorders or general discomfort, your diet plays a significant role in managing your symptoms. Certain foods can exacerbate the pain and inflammation, while others may provide relief. In this blog, we’ll discuss the foods to avoid to help ease jaw pain. Foods That Can Make Jaw Pain Worse: Hard Foods: Chewing tough foods like raw vegetables (carrots), nuts, or hard candies can strain your jaw muscles and worsen pain. Opt for softer, cooked veggies and seeds instead. Chewy Foods: Gum, taffy, or even chewy meats like steak require excessive jaw movement, which can increase discomfort. Stick to tender cuts of meat or foods that don’t require extended chewing. Crunchy Snacks: Chips, crackers, and even crispy toast can aggravate jaw pain. If you’re craving something crunchy, try soft snacks like applesauce or yogurt. Large Bites: Big sandwiches or burgers that require opening your mouth wide can stress your jaw. Try cutting your food into smaller pieces or opting for foods you can easily bite into. Caffeine and Sugary Foods: Caffeine and sugar can increase muscle tension and inflammation. If you’re prone to jaw pain, limit your intake of coffee, soda, and candy. What to Eat Instead: Soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, soups, and scrambled eggs are gentle on your jaw. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leafy greens, and fish rich in omega-3s can also help reduce inflammation and pain. Conclusion: Making mindful food choices is an important part of managing jaw pain. Avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy foods can prevent unnecessary strain on your jaw and reduce discomfort. Focus on a diet that soothes and supports jaw health to help you feel better sooner.
October 20, 2024
Sleep apnea is often misunderstood as a condition that affects only older, overweight men. However, this stereotype is far from the truth. Sleep apnea can affect people of all ages, genders, and body types. Let’s debunk the myth and discuss why it’s important for everyone to be aware of the signs and risks. Sleep Apnea Can Affect Anyone While obesity and age are risk factors, they are not the only ones. Sleep apnea is a disorder where the airway becomes obstructed during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing. It can occur in: Women: Hormonal changes during menopause can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. Young Adults: Sleep apnea can affect younger individuals, especially if they have a genetic predisposition or a narrow airway. Children: Children with enlarged tonsils or adenoids are at higher risk for sleep apnea, which can impact their growth and behavior. Athletes: Muscular people with larger necks or jaw structures may also be at risk, despite being fit. Why Everyone Should Be Aware Ignoring sleep apnea because you don’t “fit the profile” can lead to serious health consequences. Left untreated, sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, regardless of your age or weight. Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore Loud snoring or choking during sleep Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat Daytime fatigue or trouble concentrating Morning headaches Conclusion Sleep apnea doesn’t discriminate, and it’s essential to recognize the symptoms no matter your demographic. If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are struggling with your quality of sleep, talk with your primary care provider and seek a professional evaluation, regardless of age, gender, or body type!
Show More
Share by: