About the Practice

Welcome to the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh

The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh is dedicated to the treatment of Craniofacial pain, TMJ disorders, primary headaches, CPAP intolerance and sleep related breathing disorders in adults and children.

We understand that jaw difficulties are a symptom of a greater issue, impacting the entire body. Our effective treatment is focused on the cause rather than the symptoms. We treat by using nonsurgical FDA-approved appliances in conjunction with other conservative therapies for pain relief and rehabilitation while providing better sleep necessary for a successful outcome.

Dr. Belasco has been serving the Belle Vernon and surrounding Pittsburgh communities for over 30 years as a general dentist. Dr. Belasco has been studying craniofacial pain and sleep-related disordered breathing with Dr. Steven Olmos of TMJ & Sleep Therapy International for the past several years.

He has advanced training in orofacial pain and is a member of both the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Dr. Belasco is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and has over 350 hours of additional training.





Dr. James A Belasco, DDS

Diplomate, American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine

Fellow, American Academy of Craniofacial Pain

Dr. Belasco, a Pittsburgh-based professional, has devoted his career to the specialized areas of TMJ and orofacial pain management, in addition to dental sleep medicine. His own personal experiences with TMJ and sleep-related issues ignited his passion for these fields. His search for solutions led to an extensive exploration of dental sleep medicine, craniofacial pain, and TMJ disorders, along with proper nasal breathing, nutrition, and various non-surgical therapies.

Education

American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
2020: Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine

The White Memorial craniofacial pain TMJ Clinic
2022-2023: Fellowship in sleep medicine

University of Pittsburgh
1974–1978: Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

American Academy of Craniofacial Pain
2024: Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain

Georgetown University Dental School
1980–1984: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

Continuing Education And Awards

Over 500 Hours of CE in the disciplines of craniofacial pain and sleep related breathing disorders

Sleep Related Breathing Disorders and Craniofacial Pain Mini-Residency: Dr. Steven Olmos.

Our Team

Kris Evans

Treatment Coordinator

I’m Kris, the Clinical Treatment Coordinator at the Centre. I have been in the dental field for over 33 years. I’ve worked in both the clinical and administrative aspects of dentistry.

I understand what it’s like to experience TMJ and craniofacial pain as I have suffered for many years with it myself.

I had tried many different appliances and medications without success. Dr Belasco has been the only doctor to significantly reduce my symptoms, allowing me to live a life without all of the pain!

With his prescribed appliances and office therapies, I am proud to be one of his many success stories.

Learn more about what our patients have to say

about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Kayla Gelpi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre has been a huge blessing! I've struggled with jaw discomfort for over 4 years after a car accident, and despite my best efforts, multiple dentists and an ENT doctor didn't want to believe the possibility that I might have TMJ disorder. I was dismissed and pushed with surgery - something I didn't feel was the right solution. I finally found Dr. Belasco after some research and have received exceptional care and treatment. I've been taken seriously with my concerns and the treatment I received was worth the investment. I didn't even realize how bad I was sleeping until visiting the TMJ Centre and Dr. Belasco utilized therapies to improve my sleep as well. After years of discomfort, I'm finally seeing noticeable and positive results with less jaw discomfort and improved sleep quality. I've recommended this place to several of my friends already and will continue to sing their praises. So grateful for them!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Melissa George 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are so thankful for the treatment received here - wonderful and knowledgeable people who genuinely care and listen. Treatment was beneficial, and results are finally starting to be seen after years of suffering! Would unreservedly recommend to anyone suffering with TMJ!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Christine Castner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Who knew TMJ could impacts so many areas of my physical health and sleep that I didn’t think was bad.  Dr Belasco knew and understands this issue.  His treatments, attentiveness and care brought real changes with my TMJ issues.  I sleep better, breathe better, and hurt less.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anisha Ahuja 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I originally went to this dentist because of TMJ pain, but ended up learning that I have obstructive sleep apnea, and that my nighttime clenching and grinding were major contributors to the chronic migraines I’ve struggled with for years. This dentist helped me so much more than any neurology office. Both Dr Belasco and Kris are always incredibly kind. There is never a wait, and I never felt rushed, even though I always came with many questions. I am grateful for finding this practice and would highly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Erika Rodenski 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had trouble with my TMJ pain for years. I tried appliances through my dentist that did not work and was in weeks worth of flare ups, having to take time away from work and family. I took a leap of faith and went to TMJ and Sleep therapy of Pittsburgh and they changed everything. They gave me all the information I needed to understand where the pain was coming from, and got me on a treatment plan I understood and was easy to follow with new appliances that were built for me. I have been pain free since starting with them in January! I highly recommend this office and Dr Belasco.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ryan Chapman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had bad sinus pressure, jaw pain, migraines, and teeth pain. With their help, I was able to get my TMJ under control!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kelly S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very personable staff, Kris and doctor. Dr. Belasco spent hours with my mom. Very extensive testing to come up with a treatment plan for neuralgia. Can tell they care about their patients.  For the first time after seeing numerous doctors, we are optimistic! Highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Riley Graham 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolute incredible care and attention to detail. A truly 10/10 service.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Danika Lee 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Crystal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.