8490 S. Eastern Ave, Suite A 
Las Vegas NV, 89123

I Need Help With:

TMJ

HEADACHES

JAW PAIN

Carolina's Premier Dedicated Sleep & TMJ Practice. Dedicated Entirely to Helping People Who Suffer From Sleep Apnea, Snoring and TMJ.

Welcome to Carolina's Premier Dedicated Sleep & TMJ Practice

We Can Help

Clenching & Grinding


Often, this is the first sign of a TMJ problem.  It can cause aches and even chipped teeth. Your teeth should rarely touch.  The only time they should touch is during swallowing, which can...


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Popping & Clicking


Snap, Crackle, and Pop should be something you hear from a bowl of Rice Krispies, not your jaw joint.   If there are sounds emanating from the joint, it is a sign of what we call a “derangement” that...


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Lock Jaw


Physicians know that Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep and Snoring can be effective treatments but can also be tricky if not done with expert care.  They know that at SCDS we are a practice that...


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BREATH WELL, SLEEP WELL,

LIVE WELL

A Practical Guide to Understanding and Managing Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Download The First Chapter Free

Meet The Doctor

RICK W. VAN GURP

DDS, DABDSM, FACD, IFOC

A founder of the first practice dedicated to Dental Sleep Medicine and TMJ/Head and Facial Pain in the Charlotte metropolitan area, Dr. Richard “Rick” Van Gurp now brings his skill and expertise to Carolina TMJ and Sleep Solutions.


Along with a board certification in Dental Sleep Medicine, Dr. Van Gurp has extensive training in the conservative, non-surgical treatment of TMJ disorders. Dr. Van Gurp’s knowledge and experience assure patients that not only will they receive the highest level of service, but also the greatest likelihood of success in controlling their sleep apnea, snoring, and/or TMJ issue.


Dr. Van Gurp’s patients have included physicians and other colleagues in the medical and dental profession which speaks to his reputation and the level of service he and his staff provide for all their patients. With speaking engagements, he has also had the opportunity to share his knowledge with other health care professionals. Dr. Van Gurp is also a Fellow with the American College of Dentists.


Dr. Van Gurp is originally from Pennsylvania and received his first exposure to the Carolinas when his parents moved to Charlotte in 1980. He attended dental school at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he received his doctorate and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the dental honor fraternity. Following dental school, Dr. Van Gurp completed a hospital-based General Practice Residency at Hartford Hospital in Hartford, Connecticut.


Dr. Van Gurp is happily married with three adult children including a son who is a dental student at the East Carolina School of Dental Medicine. Believing one’s health is their first wealth, Dr. Van Gurp enjoys spending time in the gym and is an avid scuba diver. Dr. Van Gurp is also a licensed chaplain with the International Fellowship of Chaplains.

About Dr. Van Gurp

What our patients are saying

When you've successfully treated thousands of patients for sleep apnea and snoring, you start to hear the

same questions again and again. Here are a few of the ones we hear almost daily.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is "regenerative" therapy?

    Regenerative therapy refers to treatments that stimulate the body's natural healing processes to regenerate damaged or diseased tissues. In the context of dental sleep medicine and TMJ treatment, regenerative therapy may involve the use of techniques such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy or stem cell therapy to promote tissue repair and regeneration.

  • Will I need x-rays or an MRI?

    Depending on your specific condition, x-rays or an MRI may be necessary to diagnose and plan treatment. Your dentist or physician will determine if imaging is necessary.

  • Can’t I just use a night guard?

    While a night guard may be helpful for some patients with TMJ disorders or bruxism, it may not be effective for those with sleep apnea or more severe TMJ dysfunction. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate treatment for your individual case.

  • Can I use the things they sell in the drugstore or on Amazon?

    The over-the-counter appliances sold in drugstores or online may not be effective or safe for everyone. It is best to consult with your dentist before using any oral appliances for sleep apnea or TMJ disorders.

  • When will I get better?

    The time it takes to see improvement will vary depending on the individual case and the severity of the condition. Your dentist will provide you with a personalized treatment plan and timeline for improvement.

  • How often will I have to come?

    The frequency of appointments will depend on the treatment plan and the individual case. Your dentist will provide you with a recommended schedule for follow-up appointments.

  • How long will my appointments be?

    The length of appointments will vary depending on the treatment being provided. Your dentist will provide you with an estimated appointment time for each visit.

  • How long will treatment take?

    The duration of treatment will depend on the individual case and the treatment plan. Your dentist will provide you with an estimated timeline for treatment.

  • Will my symptoms come back?

    Depending on the individual case and the effectiveness of treatment, symptoms may return over time. Your dentist will provide you with strategies to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.

  • Will I need to wear an appliance forever?

    The need for ongoing appliance wear will depend on the individual case and the effectiveness of treatment. Your dentist will provide you with recommendations for ongoing management of your condition.

  • How do I clean my appliance?

    To clean your oral appliance, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Usually, it is recommended to clean the appliance daily with a soft brush, mild soap, and water. Avoid using toothpaste, hot water, or abrasive cleaners as they may damage the appliance. You can also use a specialized appliance cleaner recommended by your dentist.

  • Do I still have to go to my regular dentist?

    Yes, you should still see your regular dentist for check-ups and maintenance of your dental health.

  • What happens if I get a filling, cap or loose a tooth?

    If you have a filling, cap, or lose a tooth, you should contact your dentist immediately for evaluation and adjustment of your oral appliance.

  • Will my insurance cover any of the cost?

    Insurance coverage for dental sleep medicine and TMJ treatment varies depending on the insurance provider and plan. Your dentist will work with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

  • If I have out-of-pocket costs, do you have a payment plan?

    Your dentist may have payment plans or financing options available for out-of-pocket costs. You should discuss payment options with your dentist before proceeding with treatment.