Dr. Brad Sainsbury is a board-certified orofacial pain specialist and the owner and clinical director of TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego. His practice is dedicated to helping patients find answers and lasting relief from TMJ disorders, jaw and facial pain, headaches, and sleep-related breathing disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea.
Many patients come to Dr. Sainsbury after months or even years of discomfort, poor sleep, and unanswered questions. They may have seen multiple providers and still feel unsure about what is really causing their symptoms. Dr. Sainsbury’s goal is to create a calm, supportive space where patients feel heard, respected, and guided with clarity and care.
Education & Advanced Training
Dr. Sainsbury earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology (Magna Cum Laude) from Central Washington University and completed dental school with honors at the University of Washington. He then pursued advanced specialty training at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, earning a Master of Science in Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine—a level of training held by only a small number of dentists nationwide.
He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain, a Fellow of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain, and a Fellow of the American College of Dentists. He is also an active member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and works closely with sleep physicians throughout San Diego.
A Thoughtful, Non-Surgical Approach to TMJ & Pain
Dr. Sainsbury focuses on evidence-based, non-surgical care whenever possible. Each patient receives a comprehensive evaluation of the jaw joints, muscles, bite, airway, posture, and nervous system to better understand the root causes of pain or dysfunction.
Treatment plans are individualized and may include oral appliances, physical medicine, injections, laser photobiomodulation, and coordinated care with other healthcare providers. His goal is not just short-term symptom relief, but long-term comfort, function, and improved quality of life.
Surgical Collaboration for Complex TMJ Disorders
While most TMJ disorders improve with conservative treatment, some patients require surgical care. When that happens, Dr. Sainsbury works closely with experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons in San Diego who specialize in TMJ surgery. He helps guide patients through appropriate evaluation, preparation, and post-surgical care so treatment remains coordinated and supportive every step of the way.
Sleep Apnea Care & CPAP Alternatives
Dr. Sainsbury also helps patients with obstructive sleep apnea, especially those who struggle with CPAP intolerance. For appropriately selected patients, oral appliance therapy can be a comfortable and effective alternative.
Custom oral appliances are designed to support the airway during sleep, helping reduce snoring and apnea events. Dr. Sainsbury collaborates closely with sleep physicians to ensure therapy is properly prescribed, monitored, and confirmed with follow-up sleep testing when needed.
Research & Publications
Dr. Sainsbury has contributed to published research in pain management, including a peer-reviewed systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating cannabis-based medications compared to placebo for chronic neuropathic pain (Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, 2021). His research background also includes earlier laboratory work in molecular and cellular biology and participation in university research fellowships.
Leadership, Collaboration & Community
Dr. Sainsbury believes the best care happens when healthcare providers work together. He collaborates regularly with ENT physicians, neurologists, sleep physicians, physical therapists, acupuncturists, naturopaths, psychologists, chiropractors and oral and maxillofacial surgeons throughout San Diego.
He serves on the Board of Directors of the San Diego County Dental Society and on the Board of Directors of the San Diego County Dental Foundation, where he helps advance access to care and strengthen collaboration between dentistry and medicine across the region.
Beyond the Practice
Outside the office, Dr. Sainsbury enjoys spending time with his family, staying active outdoors, and giving back to the community. Most days, however, you will find him doing what he enjoys most—helping patients feel understood and guiding them toward better health, better sleep, and a better quality of life.