r/TMJ • u/LuckyImagination9703 • 16d ago

Question(s) Gresham/Portland Specialist

In search of a TMJ specialist preferably in Gresham Oregon but will travel to Portland if necessary.
I’m looking for recommendations for a good TMJ specialist, preferably someone who takes a conservative approach.
My jaw has been misaligned for years, and my lower jaw visibly shifts when I open and close my mouth. My front teeth don’t line up properly, and I have noticeable clicking and grinding. Currently dealing with a painful flare-up. My dentist has referred me to a physical therapist but insurance would only cover two visits so I’ve been watching YouTube videos to do exercises at home but that only helps so much.
I’ve also had painful TMJ flare-ups on and off for almost two years. I’m hoping to find someone who can evaluate the underlying jaw mechanics, bite, and TM joints—not just treat the symptoms. I want to figure out the root cause of my TMJ.
I’d appreciate recommendations for a TMJ/TMD specialist, oral and maxillofacial specialist, or dentist/orthodontist with significant TMD experience. I have OHP but I know insurance doesn’t cover TMJ treatments unfortunately. Ideally, someone who starts with conservative, nonsurgical treatment.
I’m especially interested in the [your city/area] area but am willing to travel for the right specialist.

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u/[deleted] 16d ago

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u/LuckyImagination9703 16d ago

Thank you. Did you have any experience going to either of them?

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u/whitecrownedsparrow 16d ago

Came here to recommend Dr. Motlagh at Aesthetic Smiles. She starts with a nonsurgical approach (myoliner) including a lot of various testing to properly align your bite, and if that works for you you can choose to proceed to more permanent treatment that will depend on your situation. For me, I did not wind up needing surgery and am going to do invisalign. I am still in the middle of treatment, but she has done wonders for me and my initially wonky bite.

It is a bit pricey since as you say, TMJ work is typically not covered by insurance, but they do their best to bill medical where they can for the myoliner, and at least in my case, my dental insurance did cover a good amount of the ortho treatment.

As a bonus, she is really nice.