If you live in the Tri-Cities— Kennewick, Pasco, or Richland —and struggle with jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or tension in the face and neck, you may be experiencing symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD) . Finding the right provider is essential, and many patients are now seeking the care of Dr. Jared Bloxham , an orofacial pain specialist known for helping patients find long-term relief from jaw-related disorders. In this post, we’ll explore what TMJ disorder is, why specialized care matters, and how Dr. Bloxham’s approach can benefit patients throughout the Tri-Cities area. Understanding TMJ Disorder Your temporomandibular joints—one on each side of your jaw—are responsible for essential daily movements like speaking, chewing, and yawning. When these joints become irritated or strained, TMJ disorder can develop. Common symptoms include: Jaw pain or stiffness Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw Frequent headaches or migraines Ear pain or ringing Facial muscle tension Difficulty chewing or biting TMJ issues have a wide range of causes, from stress-related clenching and grinding to trauma, arthritis, or bite imbalances. Why See an Orofacial Pain Specialist? While many providers treat some symptoms of TMJ disorder, orofacial pain specialists receive advanced training specifically focused on diagnosing and managing complex head, face, jaw, and neck pain. This means they can: Identify the precise source of your jaw dysfunction Differentiate TMJ disorder from headaches, nerve pain, or dental issues Provide evidence-based and conservative treatment options Offer individualized plans tailored to your specific symptoms For patients dealing with chronic or persistent jaw issues, seeing a specialist can be a game-changer. TMJ Treatment in Kennewick, Pasco & Richland With Dr. Jared Bloxham Dr. Jared Bloxham provides comprehensive TMJ evaluations and treatment for patients throughout the Tri-Cities region. As an orofacial pain specialist, he focuses on non-surgical, research-supported methods that aim to reduce pain, improve jaw function, and prevent long-term irritation of the joint. While treatment plans depend on each patient’s unique diagnosis, TMJ therapy often includes: ✔ Customized Oral Appliances Designed to reduce strain on the jaw joints and relax the surrounding muscles. ✔ Muscle and Joint Therapy Therapeutic exercises, habit training, and targeted strategies to decrease muscle tension. ✔ Bite & Jaw Function Assessments Determining whether your bite or jaw position contributes to symptoms. ✔ Lifestyle & Behavioral Guidance Addressing clenching, posture, sleep habits, and other contributing factors. ✔ Collaborative Care When needed, coordination with physical therapists, dentists, ENTs, or neurologists. Patients throughout Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland appreciate Dr. Bloxham’s careful diagnostic approach and his focus on long-term relief rather than quick fixes. Is It Time to Seek TMJ Treatment? You should consider scheduling a consultation if you experience: Jaw pain that doesn’t go away Frequent jaw clicking or popping Headaches or facial soreness Stiffness when waking up Difficulty or discomfort while chewing Pain spreading into your neck, temples, or ears Early evaluation can often prevent symptoms from becoming more chronic or severe. Find TMJ Relief in the Tri-Cities If TMJ discomfort is affecting your daily life, getting care from a specialist is one of the most effective steps you can take. Dr. Jared Bloxham offers expert TMJ evaluations and personalized treatment plans for patients across Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland , helping them restore comfort, function, and quality of life.

Frequent headaches can interfere with every aspect of life — from concentrating at work to enjoying time with family. When headaches become persistent or severe, they are more than just a nuisance; they are a sign that something deeper may be going on. At our office, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of chronic headaches and facial pain . Our provider, Dr. Jared Bloxham , is an orofacial pain specialist who helps patients throughout Pasco, Kennewick, Richland , and surrounding Eastern Washington communities find lasting, evidence-based relief from recurring head and neck pain. Understanding Headache Causes Headaches can have many different sources — muscular, joint-related, nerve-related, or even postural. For many patients, the pain originates from dysfunction in the jaw (TMJ), facial muscles, or neck structures rather than from within the brain itself. Some of the most common causes of chronic or recurring headaches include: Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism) TMJ disorders (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) Muscle tension or trigger points in the head and neck Neck strain and poor posture Stress and sleep disturbances Because these systems are interconnected, an issue in the jaw or neck can easily trigger headaches that radiate to the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes. Identifying and treating the underlying source of pain is essential for long-term relief. A Specialized Approach to Headache Relief As an orofacial pain and headache specialist , Dr. Jared Bloxham focuses on diagnosing and managing pain that originates from the jaw, facial muscles, and associated structures. This unique expertise allows him to identify headache causes that are often overlooked in general medical settings. Our non-surgical treatment options are customized for each patient and may include: Custom oral appliances to relieve jaw strain and reduce clenching Myofascial pain therapy or targeted injections for tight muscles Posture and ergonomic recommendations to reduce neck tension Stress management and lifestyle strategies Collaborative care with neurologists, sleep physicians, or physical therapists when appropriate This multidisciplinary approach helps patients achieve effective, lasting results without relying solely on medication. Why Choose a Headache Specialist? While many people seek temporary relief through over-the-counter pain medication, recurring headaches often need a more comprehensive solution. By addressing the muscular, joint, and structural sources of pain, a headache specialist can help reduce frequency, intensity, and dependence on medication over time.  Dr. Bloxham combines advanced training in orofacial pain and TMJ disorders with a compassionate, patient-centered approach to care. His goal is to help you understand your condition, find meaningful relief, and regain control of your health. Headache Care for the Tri-Cities and Eastern Washington If you’re struggling with frequent headaches, facial pain, or jaw discomfort, you don’t have to live with constant pain. Our office proudly serves patients from Pasco, Kennewick, Richland , and nearby Eastern Washington communities.

At our Richland TMJ office , Dr. Jared Bloxham takes a conservative, evidence-based approach to help patients find lasting jaw pain relief without surgery. Treatment is personalized and may include: Custom oral appliances or splints to realign the jaw and reduce pressure on the TMJ Muscle therapy and stretching to relieve facial and neck tension Stress management techniques to reduce clenching or grinding Bite assessments and minor adjustments to improve function Collaborative care with physical therapists or other specialists when needed These non-invasive TMJ therapies aim to restore comfort, reduce inflammation, and prevent long-term damage — helping you get back to living and sleeping without constant pain. Why Choose Dr. Jared Bloxham for TMJ Care Dr. Jared Bloxham is an experienced TMJ and orofacial pain specialist who focuses on understanding the root cause of your pain, not just treating symptoms. He has advanced training in the anatomy and function of the jaw, facial muscles, and related structures, allowing him to provide effective, patient-centered treatment plans. Patients across Kennewick, Richland, Pasco , and Eastern Washington trust Dr. Bloxham for his compassionate care and commitment to helping them achieve lasting, non-surgical relief from TMJ disorders. Schedule Your TMJ Consultation in the Tri-Cities If you’re searching for a TMJ specialist near Richland, Kennewick, or Pasco , or want to explore non-surgical TMJ treatment options in Eastern Washington , our office is here to help.

Quality sleep is one of the cornerstones of good health. Unfortunately, many people across the Tri-Cities and Eastern Washington struggle with sleep apnea , snoring , or other sleep-related breathing disorders that make it difficult to get restorative rest. While CPAP therapy remains the standard treatment, not everyone can tolerate the mask, pressure, or tubing. At our practice, we offer a comfortable, effective alternative — custom-fabricated oral sleep appliances designed specifically for each patient. What Are Oral Sleep Appliances? Oral sleep appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices , are small, custom-made mouthpieces that reposition the lower jaw and tongue slightly forward during sleep. This gentle movement helps keep the airway open, reducing or eliminating snoring and preventing airway obstruction associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) . Our team uses advanced technology to ensure each appliance fits comfortably and functions properly. Every device is crafted for the individual — not a one-size-fits-all solution — so patients experience both comfort and effectiveness throughout the night. Who Can Benefit from a Custom Sleep Appliance? Oral sleep appliances can be an excellent option for patients who: Have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea Cannot tolerate CPAP or prefer a less invasive solution Travel frequently and want a portable device During your consultation, our provider will evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and any prior sleep studies to determine whether an oral sleep appliance is the right treatment approach for you. Collaborative, Patient-Centered Care Our office works closely with sleep physicians and other medical providers to ensure that each patient receives appropriate and coordinated care. If you already have a diagnosis of sleep apnea, we can collaborate with your physician to fabricate and adjust a custom oral device. If you haven’t yet been diagnosed, we can help guide you toward the proper testing and referrals before starting treatment. This team-based approach helps ensure your safety, comfort, and long-term results. Serving the Tri-Cities and Beyond We are proud to serve patients throughout Kennewick, Richland, Pasco , and neighboring Eastern Washington communities. Whether you’re searching for a comfortable alternative to CPAP or simply looking for a better night’s sleep, our experienced team can help.

Chronic facial or jaw pain can affect every aspect of your daily life — from talking and eating to sleeping and concentrating. If you’ve been struggling with persistent muscle pain, tension, or soreness in your face, neck, or jaw, you may be experiencing myofascial pain . Fortunately, effective treatment options are available. At our practice, we specialize in the evaluation and management of myofascial pain and related disorders . Our provider, Dr. Jared Bloxham , is an orofacial pain specialist with advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex pain conditions affecting the head, face, and neck. Patients throughout Kennewick, Pasco, Richland , and surrounding Eastern Washington communities trust our office for expert, compassionate care. Understanding Myofascial Pain Myofascial pain refers to discomfort that originates from the muscles and the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding them. It is often caused by muscle overuse, tension, or stress — and may involve “trigger points,” which are sensitive knots in the muscles that can cause pain in nearby or seemingly unrelated areas. In the face and jaw region, myofascial pain may present as: Aching or tenderness in the cheeks, temples, or jaw muscles Pain that radiates to the neck, head, or shoulders Stiffness or fatigue in the jaw, especially when chewing or talking Tension headaches Limited jaw movement or clicking sensations Because these symptoms can mimic other conditions, accurate diagnosis by an orofacial pain specialist is key to identifying the true cause and developing an effective treatment plan. How an Orofacial Pain Specialist Can Help As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Bloxham has specialized expertise in the muscles, joints, and nerves that contribute to pain in the face, head, and neck. Treatment for myofascial pain is tailored to each patient’s unique needs and may include: Targeted muscle therapy or gentle stretching techniques Trigger point management to relieve muscle tightness Posture and ergonomic guidance to reduce strain Stress reduction and behavioral strategies to minimize muscle overuse Collaboration with physical therapists, sleep specialists, or other healthcare providers as needed Our goal is to address not just the symptoms, but the underlying causes — helping you achieve lasting comfort and improved quality of life. Compassionate, Comprehensive Care in the Tri-Cities Myofascial pain is common but often misunderstood or overlooked. At our office, we take the time to listen, evaluate, and create a personalized plan to help you feel and function better.  If you live in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco , or anywhere in Eastern Washington , and you’re seeking relief from chronic jaw or facial pain, our team is here to help.

Chronic headaches and migraines can have a profound impact on daily life — making it difficult to work, focus, and enjoy time with family or friends. For many people, the pain becomes so persistent that it feels like a normal part of life. However, ongoing head pain should never be ignored. The good news is that there are specialists trained to identify and treat the underlying causes of these conditions — and meaningful relief is possible. At our practice, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of headaches, migraines, and chronic facial pain . Our provider, Dr. Jared Bloxham , is an orofacial pain specialist with advanced training in the complex relationships between the jaw, facial muscles, nerves, and surrounding structures that can all contribute to chronic head and neck pain. Understanding Orofacial Pain and Its Connection to Headaches Orofacial pain refers to discomfort involving the muscles, joints, and nerves of the face, head, and neck. Because these structures are so interconnected, dysfunction or tension in one area can easily trigger pain in another — leading to headaches, migraines, or facial discomfort that is often difficult to pinpoint. Common causes and contributors may include: TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism) Muscle tension and myofascial pain Neuralgias or nerve-related pain Postural strain and neck dysfunction Stress and sleep disturbances As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Bloxham performs a comprehensive evaluation to identify the root cause of your pain rather than simply managing symptoms. Tailored Care for Chronic Headache and Migraine Relief Our treatment approach is based on evidence, precision, and personalization. Depending on your unique needs, care may include: Targeted muscle therapy or relaxation techniques Trigger point injections Lifestyle and stress management strategies Collaborative care with your primary care provider, neurologist, or other specialists when appropriate This multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach helps achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life. Compassionate Care for Chronic Pain Living with daily pain can be exhausting — both physically and emotionally. As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides compassionate, expert care to help patients regain comfort, function, and control over their health. Our office proudly serves Kennewick, Pasco, Richland , and neighboring Eastern Washington communities, offering advanced solutions for those suffering from chronic headaches, migraines, and facial pain. If you’ve been struggling with persistent head or facial pain and haven’t found relief through traditional treatments, it may be time to consult an orofacial pain specialist. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting headache and migraine relief.

Quality sleep is essential for overall health, yet many individuals struggle with sleep apnea and related disorders that disrupt rest and increase long-term health risks. While CPAP therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is the most commonly prescribed treatment for sleep apnea, not everyone can tolerate it. For those who find CPAP uncomfortable or are simply looking for another option, oral sleep appliances offer an effective, non-invasive alternative. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ , we specialize in custom oral sleep appliance therapy for patients who are unable to tolerate CPAP or who prefer a more comfortable, portable solution. Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Risks Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often due to the collapse or obstruction of the airway. These pauses can lead to reduced oxygen levels and frequent awakenings throughout the night, even if you’re not aware of them. Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to: Excessive daytime fatigue Difficulty concentrating or memory issues High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease Mood changes and irritability Increased risk of metabolic disorders Recognizing and addressing sleep apnea early is vital to improving both sleep quality and long-term health. What Are Oral Sleep Appliances? Oral sleep appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices , are custom-fitted mouthpieces designed to reposition the lower jaw and tongue slightly forward. This adjustment helps keep the airway open during sleep, reducing snoring and preventing airway collapse associated with obstructive sleep apnea. These appliances are: Comfortable and easy to wear Quiet , with no masks or hoses Portable , ideal for travel Custom-fitted to ensure effectiveness and comfort For many patients, oral appliance therapy provides a life-changing improvement in sleep quality without the discomfort or maintenance challenges of CPAP therapy. Collaborative Care for Optimal Results While our doctor is not a sleep physician , we work closely with board-certified sleep specialists to ensure every patient receives comprehensive, coordinated care. Typically, a sleep physician will diagnose sleep apnea through a sleep study, after which our team designs and fabricates a custom oral appliance tailored to your specific needs. We monitor your progress, comfort, and effectiveness of the appliance, making any necessary adjustments to help you achieve restful, restorative sleep. Better Sleep Starts Here in Richland We are committed to helping patients in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and surrounding Eastern Washington communities find effective, comfortable solutions for sleep apnea. Whether you’re unable to tolerate CPAP or simply seeking a more convenient alternative, oral appliance therapy could be the answer.  Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how an oral sleep appliance can help you breathe easier, sleep better, and wake feeling refreshed.

If you’ve ever noticed popping or clicking in your jaw, headaches that don’t seem to go away, neck tension, or even ear-related symptoms like ringing, fullness, or pressure, you may be surprised to learn that these issues can all be connected. The culprit could be TMJ dysfunction — a condition involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull. What Is TMJ Dysfunction? The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the body, responsible for essential movements like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint or the surrounding muscles don’t function properly, it can lead to TMJ dysfunction (often referred to as TMD). Common causes include: Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism) Stress and muscle tension Arthritis or joint inflammation Misalignment of the teeth or jaw Past trauma or injury Symptoms You Might Not Expect Many people associate TMJ dysfunction with jaw pain, but the symptoms can extend far beyond that area. Because the TMJ is located so close to the ear, nerves, and muscles of the head and neck, dysfunction can trigger a wide range of problems, such as: Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth Headaches or migraines , often around the temples or behind the eyes Neck pain or stiffness Ear symptoms , including ringing (tinnitus), a feeling of fullness, or muffled hearing Facial pain or tenderness , particularly around the jawline If left untreated, TMJ dysfunction can worsen over time, affecting your ability to eat comfortably, speak, or even sleep well. Effective Care Is Available The good news is that TMJ dysfunction can be effectively managed with proper diagnosis and personalized care. Treatment may include bite adjustments, oral appliances, or other non-invasive options that target the root cause of your discomfort rather than just masking the symptoms. Meet Dr. Jared Bloxham – TMJ Specialist in the Tri-Cities Dr. Jared Bloxham is a highly trained TMJ specialist serving Kennewick, Pasco, Richland , and neighboring communities throughout Eastern Washington . With advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, Dr. Bloxham helps patients find long-term relief from jaw pain, headaches, ear symptoms, and related issues. If you’ve been living with unexplained discomfort in your jaw, neck, or ears, it may be time to explore whether TMJ dysfunction is the underlying cause. Dr. Bloxham and his team are here to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you restore comfort and function.  Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward relief from TMJ-related pain.

Do you wake up with jaw pain? Frequent headaches? Or loud snoring and constant daytime fatigue? These may not be separate problems — they might share a common root. In the Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland area, our team is here to help you understand and treat the overlap between TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders) and sleep apnea . 💤 The TMJ – Sleep Apnea Connection The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect your jawbone to your skull and control chewing, speaking, and more. When these joints become inflamed or misaligned, you may experience pain, clicking, locking, or muscle tension in the jaw. Sleep apnea (especially obstructive sleep apnea, OSA) occurs when your airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep. This leads to drops in blood oxygen, frequent awakenings, and often loud snoring. The relationship: structural or muscular imbalances in your jaw or bite can influence airway space, and conversely, airway collapse or compensatory patterns may strain your jaw muscles. Many patients with TMD also show signs of sleep-disordered breathing (and vice versa). Because of this overlap, treating one condition without evaluating the other can leave symptoms unresolved. ✅ Why See an Orofacial Pain Specialist Here? Specialized training An orofacial pain specialist is a dentist who completes extra, post-graduate training (often 2–3 years) focused on diagnosing and treating pain in the head, face, neck, and jaw — including TMD, neuralgias, and sleep-related breathing disorders. Holistic diagnosis At our practice, we look beyond just teeth or joints. We assess your airway, your bite alignment, muscle patterns, imaging studies, and your sleep history — coordinating with sleep physicians when needed. Non-surgical, patient-centered care Many cases of TMD + mild-to-moderate sleep apnea can be managed without surgery. We favor conservative treatments first: Custom oral appliances (to reposition the jaw & support airway) Trigger-point injections or muscle therapies Bite balancing and lifestyle strategies Ongoing adjustments and monitoring Local care for Tri-Cities residents We proudly serve patients in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and surrounding communities , so you don’t have to travel far for specialized care. 🗓️ What to Expect as a New Patient A detailed history (jaw symptoms, bite habits, sleep complaints) Examination of jaw joints, muscles, airway, and bite Imaging (CBCT, joint scans) as needed Review of any existing sleep studies Personalized treatment plan (often beginning with conservative interventions) Follow-up to adjust therapy and monitor progress 🌙 Is Oral Appliance Therapy a Good Fit? Oral appliance therapy (OAT) uses a custom mouth device to gently shift the lower jaw forward. This helps keep your airway open while also relieving stress on the TMJ and surrounding muscles. Many patients prefer it to CPAP, particularly if CPAP is uncomfortable or not tolerated. However, it’s not appropriate for every case — candidacy depends on your anatomy, severity of sleep apnea, and joint health. A full evaluation is essential. 🏙 Serving the Tri-Cities: Kennewick / Pasco / Richland Whether you're in Kennewick, Pasco, or Richland, our goal is to bring you relief from jaw pain and better, more restful sleep. If any of the following resonate: Waking with jaw soreness or stiffness Grinding or clenching your teeth Frequent headaches, especially in the morning Loud snoring, gasping, or pauses in breathing Daytime drowsiness, brain fog, irritability …then it’s worth exploring whether your jaw and sleep are affecting each other. 📞 Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive TMJ + sleep evaluation. Let us help you reclaim comfort, function, and restful nights.