Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)

The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ is a dental clinic dedicated to helping you with sleep apnea, snoring, and TMJ pain. It’s time to smile again as you finally get a good night’s rest!

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What is TMD?

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), commonly referred to as “TMJ”, are quite common. Women of child bearing years are the most affected, but temporomandibular disorders can affect men, woman, and children of all ages.


The most common clinical symptoms of temporomandibular disorders include:


  • Pain in the jaw joint and surrounding structures
  • Pain in the face
  • Headache
  • Popping or clicking in the jaw joints
  • A crunching sound in the jaw joints
  • Restricted opening
  • Catching or locking of the jaw
  • Pain when chewing
  • Ear pain without actual ear infection
  • A congested feeling in the ears
  • Ringing in the ears


Each patient is different and the number, intensity and frequency of TMD symptoms each patient presents with is unique.


Obviously, many of the above symptoms are not specific to temporomandibular disorders. Our doctor works closely with your doctor, dentist and other members of the medical/dental community to make sure that the most accurate diagnosis possible for your TMD is made.


If you feel you suffer from TMD, please call our office today to schedule a consultation: (208) 376-3600.

Sleep Apnea is a serious medical concern. Find out how we can help.

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Treatment for TMJ

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Night Guard vs Splint vs Othotic

TMJ Grinding vs Clenching

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the long-term effects of untreated TMJ?

    Untreated TMJ can result in persistent tinnitus, or ear ringing, which can interfere with sleep and make it difficult to concentrate. Because our body senses balance in the inner ears, TMJ disorder's inflammation can affect balance as well, causing vertigo, shakiness, and dizziness.

  • Will treatment require surgery?

    Here at The Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we first focus on finding a non-surgical solution. We specialize in non-surgical treatments. Surgery is only considered a last resort when all other avenues of treatment have been explored.

  • Will I have to take medication?

    Most of the treatments do not require the use of medications. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help alleviate some of the pain caused by TMJ.

  • Are TMJ and ear pain related?

    One of the typical symptoms of TMJ dysfunction is ear pain. Due to the TMJ's proximity to the auditory canal, discomfort and inflammation in this joint might impact the ear, causing tinnitus or ringing in the ears, which is a common symptom of TMJ.


  • TMJ, headaches, and sleep disorders. Are they related?

    According to research, 85% of TMJ patients also have painful disorders in other body parts. Research has shown that untreated obstructive sleep apnea can be a cause of headaches and TMJ type pain. To determine what is causing your pain, reach out to The Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ today.

  • Can using a CPAP cause a TMJ problem?

    While uncommon, there are times when patients report TMJ-like symptoms while using CPAP therapy.