TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of The Gorge

A Patients Guide:
Holistic, Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment:

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disorders can cause pain, headaches, jaw clicking, difficulty chewing, and more. Our practice focuses on non-surgical, holistic treatments to restore balance, function, and comfort—without invasive procedures.

Happy Family

    Our Non-Surgical Treatment Approach to TMJ Dysfunction and Sleep Disorders

      We specialize in providing non-invasive solutions for TMJ/TMD that focus on long-term relief without the need for surgery. Our approach addresses the root cause of jaw pain, headaches, and discomfort by utilizing customized oral appliances, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle modifications to restore proper jaw function and alleviate strain.

      We believe in treating the root cause of TMJ dysfunction rather than just the symptoms. Our comprehensive, whole-body approach includes:

      • Avoids invasive procedures and long recovery times
      • Targets the root cause, not just the symptoms
      • Supports whole-body wellness for lasting results

      Contact us today at (541) 386-2999 to schedule an appointment. Allow Dr. Haynie and Dr. Payne to help you relieve pain and start living your life to the fullest without the fear that comes with surgical treatment

      Our Services

      Questions?

      Give our office a call at (541) 386-2999

      What to expect during treatment

      TMJ Icon
      Understanding what lies ahead helps you feel confident and ready. Below is a step-by-step overview of how your holistic TMJ care will progress—from diagnosis through stabilization.

      Initial Consultation & Diagnosis

      A thorough neuromuscular exam and digital imaging session (CBCT, jaw‐tracking, molds) to map your unique jaw alignment and pinpoint underlying issues.

      Appliance Fitting & Adjustment

      Custom orthopedic–neuromuscular orthotic fabrication and follow-up tweaks ensure your oral appliance properly aligns the jaw, eases muscle strain, and supports airway function.

      Active Treatment Phase

      You’ll wear your appliance as directed, perform guided myofunctional exercises, work on posture with PT/chiro support, and may receive laser or cold-therapy sessions to accelerate pain relief and reduce inflammation.

      Weaning Phase

      As symptoms improve and your jaw stabilizes, we’ll gradually decrease appliance wear, continue exercises and lifestyle recommendations, and monitor to secure lasting balance and comfort.

      Non Surgical TMJ & Sleep Treatments

      Comprehensive Diagnosis

      Orthopedic Appliances

      Myofunctional Therapy

      Postural Support

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      Laser Therapy

      Lifestyle Guidance

      What is TMJ

      Comprehensive Diagnosis & Digital Imaging

      • In-depth consultation to understand your symptoms
      • Digital scans, CBCT imaging, or other diagnostic tools to assess jaw alignment
      • Customized treatment planning based on your unique needs (this is an extremely detailed process and takes about 2 hours to complete.) 
      Oral Appliance

      Orthopedic & Neuromuscular Orthotics

      • Custom-made oral appliances to align the jaw properly and relieve tension
      • Helps reduce inflammation and muscle strain over time
      • Can be worn day, night, or both depending on your condition
      • Reduces jaw tension and discomfort
      • Supports airway opening for better sleep
      • Helps correct alignment and function
      Myofunctional Therapy

      Myofunctional Therapy & Jaw Exercises

      • Guided exercises to strengthen and retrain facial muscles
      • Helps improve breathing, posture, and muscle coordination
      • Supports long-term stability and reduces tension in the jaw and neck
      TMJ Physical Therapy

      Postural & Physical Therapy Support

      • Collaboration with physical therapists or chiropractors to correct body alignment issues
      • Addresses neck, spine, and shoulder imbalances that contribute to TMJ dysfunction.
      DEKA Laser

      Advanced Laser & Cold Therapy

      • Bioresearch MLS Laser – Reduces inflammation, alleviates pain, and accelerates tissue repair for improved healing.

      • DEKA QuietNite Laser – Enhances airway function, reduces snoring, and improves breathing through targeted tissue tightening.

      • Fotona Dual Laser – Promotes collagen production, reduces inflammation, and rejuvenates facial aesthetics while aiding in pain relief.

      • Diode Laser – Effectively targets bacteria in periodontal pockets, promoting faster healing and improved gum health.

      • Periolase Laser – Supports advanced gum disease treatment with minimal discomfort while encouraging tissue regeneration and healing.

      Nutrion Recommendations

      Nutritional & Lifestyle Recommendations

      • Anti-inflammatory diet guidance to support joint and muscle health
      • Stress management techniques like meditation, breathwork, and massage
      • Education on avoiding habits that worsen TMJ symptoms (e.g., teeth grinding)

      Your Path to a Pain-Free Smile Starts Here

      Don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and discuss the best path forward.

      Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment

      Q: What are the most effective non-surgical treatments for TMJ?

      A: The most effective non-surgical treatments for TMJ include oral appliance therapy, physical therapy, myofunctional therapy, lifestyle changes, and posture correction. At our Hood River, OR centre, we customize care plans using these conservative techniques to relieve pain, improve jaw function, and promote long-term healing—without surgery.

      Q: What is non-surgical TMJ treatment and how does it work?

      A: Non-surgical TMJ treatment focuses on addressing joint dysfunction through less invasive methods such as custom orthotics (mouth guards), therapeutic exercises, and habit modification. These approaches reduce inflammation, restore alignment, and ease tension in the jaw muscles over time.

      Q: Is non-surgical TMJ care effective for long-term relief?

      A: Yes. Many patients experience lasting relief with non-surgical TMJ care, especially when treatment is personalized and comprehensive. Our team in Hood River, OR takes a whole-body approach, helping patients avoid the risks and downtime associated with surgery.

      Q: How do I know if non-surgical TMJ treatment is right for me?

      A: If you’re dealing with jaw pain, clicking, limited movement, or headaches, non-invasive options may be all you need. Our specialists in Hood River will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether non-surgical TMJ treatment can provide effective relief tailored to your lifestyle and condition severity.
      Common Questions about Non Surgical TMJ Treatment in Hood River
      Doctor & Customer Approved

      Trusted By Our Many Patients

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      Sam R. profile picture
      Sam R.
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      In my 78 years I can honestly say that I've never had a better hygienist than Jenna and Mindy. They were both very sensitive to my needs and experts with a needle. Not to mention Dr Kivel is an artist of dentistry. I thank them for their patience.
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      linda densmore profile picture
      linda densmore
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      I so appreciate the professionalism and talent of this office. I had my second crown by Curtis Haynie D.M.D. today with Alma’s wonderful reassuring assistance and I would recommend them 100%. Such a relief after having a bad experience in another state several years ago.
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      Melody Shapiro profile picture
      Melody Shapiro
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      Highly recommend! Exceptional customer care and space age technology! Dr Haynie completed my crown in one sitting. I can attest to their claim of no pain dentistry. The office staff and technicians are highly skilled and focused on your care the minute you walk in the door and eager to explain all details of the procedure and freely invite any questions you have. I have never had a more comfortable nor compassionate and pain free enjoyable dental experience.
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      Blair Ellsworth profile picture
      Blair Ellsworth
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      I was a patient at Hood River Dental for 10+ years, first at the Belmont office, then at the E Sherman office. Sasha was very attentive to my dental care, ensuring I had solid advice for ensuring I maintained my dental health. Looking back, I'm also impressed with Doctor Haynie's enthusiasm for dental and patient care. He was always excited to share his techniques, enthusiastic to explain why a particular procedure was so exciting, and generally made going to the dentist fun. Hood River Dental also offers cutting-edge dental technologies. My current dental office assumed that, being from a small town, I'd never experienced digital charting, digital x-rays, panoramic x-rays, or in-house and same-day crown modeling and creation. Hood River Dental offers all of these and more. You get all of the cutting-edge techniques that dental offices in The Big Cities offer in Hood River, with professional, caring, and enthusiastic care. If I could swing it, I'd consider the long drive to Hood River Dental for care. They're worth it!
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      Polly Wood profile picture
      Polly Wood
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      I’ve been a patient at Hood River Dental 13 years and couldn’t be happier. Along with their state of the art care, the professional and friendly staff educates and inspires me to practice thorough dental hygiene between visits. Thank you Dr. Haynie, Sasha and all the great people at Hood River Dental!
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      Raven Rutherford
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      I don't normally seek out Dentists, (which of course is why I found myself in Dr. Paynes chair)I had a nightmarish dental experience as a young teen which left a pronounced scar on my face. Dr Payne and his AMAZING dental assistant "Rico" performed dental magic on me which left me in complete awe of Hood River Dental. If you don't go to Hood River Dental for each and every one of yours and your family's dental needs you will get inferior treatment and quality. Ok that was obviously mean to the other HR Dentists, but you will definately not get the dynamic duo of Rico and Dr. Payne they are professionals in every sense of the word. Please go and see my new lifetime Dentist, Dr. Payne and experience Dental Arts at its finest.
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      Alice Facteau profile picture
      Alice Facteau
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      Who likes to go to the dentist? I really don't mind because everyone there is very friendly and caring and still very professional.
      Who We Are

      Our Experts

      CURTIS HAYNIE

      DMD

      Dr Haynie is grateful for the opportunity to practice in his hometown and loves accessing all the activities it provides. His goal is to always live the moment in the Gorge with his family Julia, Aidan, and Ava.

      William Payne

      DMD

      Dr. Payne enjoys collaborating with the skilled doctors and team at Hood River Dental and is proud to bring his many years of experience in quality, comfortable dental care to the Hood River community.

      We Look Forward
      To Meeting You

      Start your journey to better sleep and lasting relief. At The TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of The Gorge, we help you live pain-free and wake up refreshed. Reach out today to begin your transformation.

      Contact Us Today!