New Patients at TMJ Therapy Centre
You'll find that TMJ Therapy Centre is a relaxed, friendly place that doesn't have the feel of a typical medical practice. Our warm and friendly staff are ready to welcome you — whether you're here for TMJ treatment, general dental care, or simply want answers about jaw pain, headaches, or sleep problems you've been experiencing.
We understand that seeking help for TMJ symptoms can feel overwhelming, especially if you've been dealing with pain for a long time or have seen other practitioners without getting clear answers. We're here to listen, assess thoroughly, and give you a clear path forward.
Preparing for Your Visit
To make the most of your first appointment, please bring the following:
- Your healthcare/health fund card
- Any past X-rays, scans, images, or reports related to TMJ, dental, or jaw treatment
- A list of current medications
- Any sleep study results (if you have them)
- A referral letter (if you've been referred by a GP, dentist, or specialist — though referrals are not required)
New patient paperwork can be found on our website and completed in advance. If you haven't filled it out beforehand, please arrive 10 minutes early to complete it at the clinic. If it helps to know what to expect, you can see our rooms before you arrive.
If you're unsure what to bring or have questions before your visit, call our team on (03) 9804 7454 — we're happy to help.
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Comfortable Conversation (15–20 Minutes)
Your first appointment begins with a relaxed conversation — not in a dental chair. We'll sit down together in our comfortable consultation area to discuss what's brought you in, your symptoms, how long you've been experiencing them, and how they're affecting your daily life. We want to understand the full picture before we examine anything.
Comprehensive Assessment (45–60 Minutes)
Our assessment is thorough and goes well beyond a standard dental exam. Depending on your concerns, we may evaluate your jaw movement, muscle tension, bite alignment, posture, breathing patterns, and neck function. We use advanced diagnostic tools including digital imaging and, where indicated, CBCT scanning to build a complete understanding of your condition.
Clear Findings & Next Steps (15–20 Minutes)
At the end of your assessment, we explain our findings clearly — what we've identified, what we believe is causing your symptoms, and what treatment options are available. You'll receive a detailed treatment plan with expected timelines and costs before making any commitment.
We believe in informed decision-making. You'll never be pressured into treatment, and we encourage you to ask as many questions as you need.
What We Look At During Your Assessment
Jaw & Bite
- Jaw joint movement and mechanics
- Bite alignment and occlusion
- Jaw clicking, locking, or pain patterns
- Teeth grinding and wear patterns
Muscles & Posture
- Jaw, neck, and shoulder muscle tension
- Trigger points and referred pain
- Head and neck posture
- Breathing patterns
Function & Sleep
- Ability to chew, speak, and yawn comfortably
- Sleep quality and nighttime clenching
- Headache and migraine patterns
- Impact on daily activities and quality of life
This comprehensive approach ensures we don't just find what is wrong — we identify why it's happening. That distinction is what leads to lasting treatment outcomes.
Treatment Options Available
After your assessment, we'll recommend a personalised treatment plan that may include one or more of the following:
We also provide comprehensive general dental care — check-ups, cosmetic dentistry, and early orthodontics for children — informed by our holistic, TMJ-aware perspective.
Costs, Health Funds & Payment Plans
We believe in transparent pricing with no surprises. After your assessment, you'll receive a detailed cost estimate covering all recommended treatments before you commit to anything.
Health Fund Coverage
We accept all major health funds and process claims on the spot through our HICAPS machine. Many patients find that a significant portion of their TMJ treatment is covered under their dental and physiotherapy extras.
Payment Plans
Interest-free payment plans are available through DentiCare for patients who prefer to spread the cost of treatment. We're happy to discuss payment options during your consultation so finances never become a barrier to care.
No Referral Required
You can book directly with our team — no referral from a GP or dentist is needed. However, we welcome referrals and will coordinate with your existing healthcare providers.
Questions About Costs?
Call our team for a general guide to treatment costs, or book your assessment to receive a personalised estimate.
What to Expect From Our Team
Our patients consistently tell us that their experience at TMJ Therapy Centre feels different from other clinics they've visited. We take the time to listen, we explain things clearly, and we never rush. Whether you're nervous about dental visits, frustrated after years of unresolved symptoms, or simply looking for answers, you'll find a team that genuinely cares about getting you the right outcome.
New Patient FAQs
No referral is required. You can book directly by calling (03) 9804 7454 or through our website. We welcome self-referred patients as well as referrals from GPs, dentists, and other healthcare providers.
For more detailed answers about TMJ treatment, physiotherapy, sleep apnoea, and more, visit our comprehensive FAQ page.
Schedule an Appointment
We provide emergency care and can get you in on the same day. Contact us straightaway to get the help you need. Interest-free payment plans are available through DentiCare. All health funds accepted.
New Patients at TMJ Therapy Centre | (03) 9804 7454
