TMJ Sleep Center in El Paso, TX

Our practice is dedicated to diagnosing and treating conditions related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) as well as sleep disorders that often accompany TMJ dysfunction. The TMJ is the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull, essential for talking, chewing, and yawning. When this joint isn’t working properly—due to injury, misalignment, arthritis, or other causes—it can result in a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds, and facial discomfort.

TMJ disorders frequently impact sleep quality. Many people with TMJ issues also suffer from sleep disturbances such as bruxism (teeth grinding), sleep apnea, or restless sleep caused by pain and discomfort. We understand that these issues often go hand-in-hand, which is why we provide comprehensive, compassionate care that addresses both TMJ dysfunction and related sleep problems.

Our team of experienced dental and sleep professionals uses a thorough, multidisciplinary approach to evaluation and treatment. This process may include a detailed medical and dental history, physical examination, advanced dental imaging, jaw function assessments, and, when necessary, sleep studies.

We specialize in diagnosing and treating Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ or TMD), a common condition that can greatly impact sleep quality and overall well-being. The temporomandibular joints connect the jaw to the skull, playing a vital role in everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. When these joints become dysfunctional or inflamed, patients often experience pain, stiffness, and limited jaw movement.

Many people suffering from TMJ notice their symptoms worsen at night. It is common for individuals with TMJ to unconsciously clench or grind their teeth during sleep—a condition known as bruxism. This not only aggravates jaw pain, but can also lead to headaches, muscle tension, and frequent sleep disturbances. The discomfort can cause frequent awakenings, trouble falling asleep, and can even contribute to broader sleep disorders such as insomnia. In some cases, TMJ related pain may radiate to the neck and shoulders, further disrupting restful sleep and causing daytime fatigue.

We understand the close link between TMJ disorders and sleep health. Our experienced team uses a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment, which may include custom oral appliances, physical therapy, stress management techniques, lifestyle modifications, and dental interventions tailored to each patient’s needs. By addressing the underlying causes of TMJ, we aim not only to relieve pain and restore normal jaw function, but also to promote healthy, restorative sleep.

Koala Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders is a specialized medical practice dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) as well as sleep related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea. Our center is staffed by experienced dental and medical professionals with advanced training in both TMJ disorders and sleep medicine, allowing us to provide comprehensive care for our patients.

Our team will evaluate symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, and clicking or popping sounds in the jaw—common indicators of TMJ disorders. We are also equipped to assess sleep related symptoms, including loud snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches, all of which can be associated with sleep apnea.

Our diagnostic process includes a thorough review of your medical history, a physical examination of your jaw and facial muscles, and, when necessary, imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs to evaluate the condition of your jaw joint. If sleep apnea is suspected, we may recommend or coordinate a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep cycles overnight.

We offer a comprehensive range of treatments designed to address sleep related jaw pain and the underlying causes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Our approach begins with a thorough evaluation, where our experienced team identifies the specific factors contributing to your jaw discomfort—such as teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching during sleep, or structural issues with the jaw joint.

A cornerstone of our care is the use of custom made oral appliances, tailored to fit comfortably over your teeth. These devices help reduce strain on the jaw muscles and joints by maintaining proper alignment while you sleep, and also protect your teeth from damage caused by nighttime grinding or clenching. Our skilled practitioners at Koala Center create these appliances based on your unique needs and anatomy for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

In addition to oral appliance therapy, we may recommend physical therapy under the guidance of our team. This can include targeted jaw exercises to strengthen muscles, improve joint mobility, and reduce pain and muscle tension. Physical therapy is an essential part of restoring healthy jaw function and improving your quality of life. Pain and inflammation management is another critical aspect of our treatment plans.

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, we may suggest options such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or other pain relievers. Our providers work closely with you to ensure safe and effective symptom relief.

If your sleep related jaw pain is connected to a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea, the Koala Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders coordinates care with sleep medicine specialists. In these cases, treatment options may include CPAP therapy or specialized oral appliances designed to improve airflow and reduce jaw discomfort caused by disrupted sleep. For more information, call us today to book an appointment or visit our clinic conveniently located at 6901 Helen of Troy, Suite D-2, El Paso, TX 79911. We serve patients from El Paso TX, Fort Bliss TX, Canutillo TX, Vinton TX and Northeast El Paso TX. We look forward to serving you!