Our Clinic
About Us
Canberra's specialist clinic for jaw pain, facial pain, and dental sleep medicine — led by two of Australia's most experienced clinicians in this field.
Who We Are
Specialist Care for Complex Conditions
The Canberra Facial Pain & Dental Sleep Medicine Clinic is a specialist practice dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, orofacial pain, and sleep-related breathing conditions. We are located at 27 Jardine Street, Kingston ACT — in the heart of Canberra.
Unlike general dental practices, our clinic focuses exclusively on these complex conditions. Our clinicians hold postgraduate specialist qualifications in orofacial pain and sleep medicine, and bring a depth of expertise that is rare in the Canberra region.
We take a comprehensive, evidence-based, and non-surgical approach to treatment. Our goal is to understand the root cause of your condition — not just manage the symptoms — and to develop a personalised treatment plan that delivers lasting results.
Meet the Team
Dr Joseph Ryan
Oral Medicine Specialist
Dr Joseph Ryan is an internationally recognised oral medicine specialist with expertise in TMJ therapy, orofacial pain, and dental sleep medicine. He holds senior academic positions at Charles Sturt University and the University of Melbourne, and has received multiple international research awards for his contributions to the field.
Dr Joseph is the current President of the Australian Medical Photobiomodulation Therapy Association and a leading clinician-researcher in the application of photobiomodulation (laser) therapy for orofacial conditions. He is one of a small number of clinicians in Australia with this level of specialist expertise.
Qualifications
- BMedSc (University of Sydney)
- BDSc (Charles Sturt University)
- BSc Hons 1 (Charles Sturt University)
- MSc Pain Medicine (University of Sydney)
- DCD FOMAA Oral Medicine (University of Melbourne)
Roles & Recognition
- President, Australian Medical Photobiomodulation Therapy Association
- Senior Academic, Charles Sturt University
- Senior Academic, University of Melbourne
- Multiple international research award recipient
- Specialist in TMJ therapy, orofacial pain, and sleep medicine
"Our goal is not just to treat symptoms, but to understand the underlying cause and give patients the tools to achieve lasting relief."
— Dr Joseph Ryan
"After more than four decades in practice, I still believe the most important thing we can do is truly listen to our patients."
— Dr Michael Ryan
Dr Michael Ryan
Principal Dentist
Dr Michael Ryan has been practising in the Canberra region since 1980. With a comprehensive, holistic approach to dentistry and advanced postgraduate studies in gnathology, craniofacial pain, and sleep medicine, he brings over 40 years of clinical expertise to every patient.
Dr Michael's depth of experience in managing complex jaw and pain conditions is unmatched in the region. His long-standing relationships with referring practitioners across Canberra reflect the trust the medical community places in his clinical judgement.
Qualifications
- BDS (Dental Surgery)
- Masters of Science in Medicine — Pain Management (Orofacial Pain)
- Advanced studies in gnathology and craniofacial pain
- Advanced studies in sleep medicine
Experience
- Principal Dentist, Canberra Facial Pain & Dental Sleep Medicine Clinic
- Practising in the Canberra region since 1980
- Specialist in gnathology, craniofacial pain, and sleep medicine
- 40+ years of clinical experience
Our Approach
What Sets Us Apart
Evidence-Based Practice
Every treatment we offer is grounded in peer-reviewed research. We do not offer unproven therapies, and we stay current with the latest clinical evidence.
Patient-Centred Care
We take the time to understand each patient's full history, lifestyle, and goals before recommending a treatment plan. There is no one-size-fits-all approach here.
Specialist Expertise
Dr Joseph Ryan is a specialist in oral medicine with postgraduate qualifications in orofacial pain and sleep medicine. Dr Michael Ryan holds postgraduate qualifications and brings extensive experience in dental sleep medicine and TMD management.
Recognised Leadership
Dr Joseph Ryan holds national leadership positions in photobiomodulation therapy and has received multiple international research awards for his work in oral medicine.
Ready to See Our Specialists?
Book a consultation with Dr Joseph or Dr Michael Ryan and take the first step toward lasting relief.