About Us

Meet Our Team

TMJ Arizona Team

Dr. Thomas M. Sims, DDS

Through many various continuing education programs he has attended over the years, Dr. Sims has become well versed in many varieties of restorative dentistry including cosmetic and complicated dental procedures like full mouth rehabilitation and hybrid dentures incorporating the use of implants. He has always kept up with the new technologies that has created an easier and more comfortable means to deliver care to his patients.

Dr. Sims has always had the drive to continue to learn. One area that has always evaded him as well as the majority of other practicing dentists is understanding the world of TMD (temporomandibular joint disorders) and it’s associated cranial facial pain. Through his tireless search he feels he has found the answer and is excited about the new protocols he follows. He feels so strongly about this newly acquired body of knowledge that he has elected to open a practice treating these disorders . He joins a group of 67 (and growing) centers throughout the world following these same protocols. The approach he uses is innovative yet it is very holistic and practical. Dr. Sims believes that within time all dental and medical students will understand the concepts he currently employs. Because these disorders often overlap into the medical community the opportunity to once again develop a bridge between the medical and dental community has emerged.

Dr. Sims

As Doctor Sims has worked within the arena of craniofacial pain, it has become very clear that these problems can consume the patient’s life. From the time they rise until the time they retire for bed many of their thoughts and emotions revolve around where they hurt and more pointedly how can they move beyond their pain. In many instances a person’s poor sleep can influence the daytime problems they are experiencing. Doctor Sims looks forward with much anticipation to meet individuals with these concerns to discuss their needs. He knows he can bring relief to a problem that generally has been present for many years. He describes how satisfying it is to see his patients experience a literal change in their lives as they rid themselves of pain that they have had for many years and enjoy a good nights sleep. It is clear that as his patients progress through the care provided they once again can gain more control of their health putting them in charge of their body and not allowing pain to direct them.

He also devotes his time to the service of his community. He has often said “service is the juice of life!” One area he has participated in for the past 16 years is volunteering his time to provide free dental work for under privileged children. Dr. Sims is truly an asset to the community. Upon meeting Dr. Sims, you will find yourself immediately comforted by his welcoming smile, his compassion for his patients and his commitment to providing them with the highest quality of care. 

 

Heather

Heather

Clinical Director

Heather Staab is the Clinical Director at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix-East, where she brings over two decades of experience in the dental field. A licensed Dental Hygienist since 2001, Heather began her career in 1998 and spent 23 years working alongside Dr. Sims as a dedicated hygienist.

Driven by personal experience with sleep breathing disorders and TMJ issues, Heather made a fulfilling career transition to help others suffering from these challenges. She started deepening her knowledge about sleep breathing and TMJ issues in 2014, recognizing the importance of staying informed about the latest advancements in this field. As a lifelong learner, Heather is passionate about sharing her expertise with patients and colleagues alike. She understands the impact these conditions can have on patients’ lives and is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective treatment options.

As Clinical Director, Heather oversees patient care, collaborates with the team, and ensures the highest standards of service. Beyond her professional life, Heather is married to her high school sweetheart and a loving mother to two children who bring immense joy to her days. Her commitment to both her patients and family reflects her strong values and compassionate nature.

Emily

Emily

Treatment Coordinator

Emily is a dedicated treatment coordinator specializing in TMJ and sleep therapy at the TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix-East. Inspired by her successful treatment for TMJ issues, she brings warmth, expertise, and genuine compassion to her role. Emily is committed to providing personalized care and support that makes a tangible difference in patients’ lives.

With a keen interest in pediatric airway dentistry, Emily recognizes the importance of early intervention for children’s oral health and development. As a mother, she understands firsthand how proper breathing and sleep impact a child’s overall growth. This focus helps her coordinate comprehensive care plans that address these critical issues.

Beyond work, Emily enjoys culinary creativity, knitting unique pieces, and reading books. As a proud mother of a lively 2-year-old son, she integrates her professional interests into family life to support his developmental milestones. Emily’s multifaceted experiences enable her to connect with patients on a deeper level, providing holistic care that extends beyond the treatment room.

Dr. Thomas Sims, DDS

Danielle

Clinical Assistant

Danielle Rutner joined the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix-East as the clinical assistant in 2022, bringing a unique perspective from her upbringing in Page, Arizona near Lake Powell. She completed dental assisting school in 2019 and has specialized education in lasers, making her an asset to the team.

Danielle’s warm demeanor and attention to detail ensure that every patient receives compassionate care. As a dedicated mother of two children who mean the world to her, she understands the importance of empathy in airway dentistry. When not at work, Danielle enjoys quality time with her family, stays active through Zumba, and lets her creativity shine through crocheting projects. Her multifaceted interests and expertise make her an integral part of the team.

With her education and personal experiences, Danielle offers comprehensive care that addresses both physical needs and emotional well-being. As the clinical assistant, she takes pride in making each patient feel heard and valued during their treatment. Her ability to balance her personal and professional lives allows her to bring a well-rounded perspective to her work at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix-East.

Learn more about what our patients have to say

about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix - East

Joan L.

5.0 ★★★★★

"I can't thank Dr. Sims and the team at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix - East enough! After years of struggling with TMJ pain and disrupted sleep, I found the relief I desperately needed here. Dr. Sims' expertise and personalized care made all the difference. I'm finally pain-free and getting the restful sleep I deserve. This center truly transformed my life!"

Mitchell H.

5.0 ★★★★★

"My journey with the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre has been nothing short of remarkable. Dr. Sims is not just a skilled doctor but also a compassionate healer. The treatment I received for my TMJ issues and sleep disturbances was tailored to my unique needs. Thanks to Dr. Sims, I wake up refreshed every day, and my jaw pain is a distant memory."

Samantha D.

5.0 ★★★★★

"Dr. Sims and the team at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre are simply outstanding! From the moment I walked through their doors, I felt cared for and supported. Dr. Sims' expertise in TMJ and sleep therapy is unmatched, and the results speak for themselves. Thanks to their dedicated approach, I now enjoy a pain-free jaw and peaceful, restorative sleep."