JAWS+ Launches in Port Macquarie to Provide Specialist Jaw Care
- Veronica Lind
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
“As a GP I often see patients who have struggled for years with unexplained headaches or facial pain,” said Dr Kristy Kostalas. “JAWS+ gives us a dedicated service where patients can be assessed holistically by both medical and dental professionals, something that has been missing in our region until now.”
Residents of the Mid North Coast who may experience chronic headaches, jaw pain, teeth grinding (bruxism), or Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction now have access to a new service that previously required travel to metropolitan centres.
JAWS+ (Jaw Alignment + Wellness Solutions) is a first-of-its-kind clinic in Port Macquarie, created through a collaboration between Dr Kristy Kostalas, Medical Director and Founder of Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic, and Dr Akram Youssef, owner of Mid North Coast Dental Centres. With Dr Claudia Long as the lead medical practitioner, JAWS+ combines dental and medical expertise to provide professional assessments and coordinated care for patients experiencing jaw-related concerns.
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A Common Yet Under-Recognised Condition
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is more common than many people realise. International studies suggest it affects between 8% and 31% of adults, although there is limited data specific to Australia (Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health, Practice Sheet – Bruxism).
TMJ dysfunction is also a recognised contributor to headaches, facial tension, and jaw pain, yet it can be difficult to diagnose in general practice (Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, Australian Journal of General Practice, 2018).
These conditions are often complex and can present with symptoms that overlap across medical and dental care. A collaborative approach can therefore give patients a clearer understanding of potential contributing factors.
“Many of our patients have complex symptoms that do not come from just one source,” said Dr Claudia Long, Medical Practitioner at JAWS+. “Often, people do not even realise their jaw could be linked to their headaches or teeth grinding. At JAWS+ we aim to give patients clear explanations, reassurance, and practical options for managing these concerns.”
What JAWS+ Offers
The JAWS+ clinic is designed to provide patients with:
Comprehensive Assessments: Joint review by dentist and medical practitioner to consider both dental and muscular causes of symptoms.
Integrated Care Plans: Collaborative recommendations tailored to individual needs.
Symptom Support: Guidance for patients who may be experiencing jaw pain, headaches, clenching, facial tension, or associated discomfort.
Ongoing Reviews: Regular follow-ups to support long-term management strategies.
Local Access: Conveniently available at Mid North Coast Dental Centres in Port Macquarie.
“From a dental perspective, teeth grinding and jaw clenching can cause long-term damage if left unaddressed,” said Dr Akram Youssef. “With JAWS+, patients do not need to travel to metropolitan centres for multidisciplinary support. We can now provide this level of care right here in Port Macquarie.”
Availability
The JAWS+ clinic currently runs on Wednesdays at Mid North Coast Dental Centres, with plans to expand based on patient demand.
Patients can book an initial consultation online at www.midnorthcoastdental.com.au/jawsplus or contact the clinic by phone on (02) 6581 4025.
About JAWS+
JAWS+ (Jaw Alignment + Wellness Solutions) is a collaborative service on the Mid North Coast founded by Dr Kristy Kostalas (Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic) and Dr Akram Youssef (Mid North Coast Dental Centres). With Dr Claudia Long as the lead practitioner, JAWS+ provides professional assessments and coordinated medical and dental support for patients who may be experiencing symptoms such as orofacial pain, headaches, bruxism, and TMJ dysfunction.
Disclaimer
Prescription-only medicines may be discussed during consultation if clinically appropriate. Any treatment is only available following an in-person assessment with a qualified health professional, and suitability varies between individuals.
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Phone: (02) 6581 4025
About Mid North Coast Dental Centres
Providing advanced digital dental care in Port Macquarie and Lake Cathie. From gentle family check-ups to cosmetic and emergency treatments, our friendly team is here to help you smile with confidence.
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