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Personalized Relief for Jaw Pain, Headaches, and Bite Imbalance
TMJ Therapy in Palo Alto, CA
Do you wake up with jaw soreness, frequent headaches, or clicking sounds when you chew? You may be experiencing issues with your temporomandibular joints (TMJ). At Denise Henderson DDS, we offer customized TMJ therapy to help relieve pain, restore jaw function, and improve overall comfort—without surgery or medication.
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We proudly care for patients throughout Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Los Altos, and Stanford, offering advanced, non-invasive treatment options that support both oral and whole-body wellness.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (often abbreviated as TMJ or TMD) refers to dysfunction of the joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. These joints allow you to open, close, and move your jaw side to side. When they become inflamed, misaligned, or overworked, it can result in a wide range of symptoms.
Common signs of TMJ disorder include:
- Jaw pain or soreness, especially in the morning or late in the day
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening your mouth
- Headaches or migraines, often around the temples
- Neck or shoulder pain
- Difficulty chewing or pain when biting
- Jaw locking or limited range of motion
- Earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ears
Because TMJ symptoms often overlap with other health issues, a proper diagnosis from a dental professional with experience in TMJ therapy is essential.
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What Causes TMJ Dysfunction?
There is no single cause of TMJ disorder—many patients experience symptoms due to a combination of factors, such as:
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Jaw misalignment or bite imbalance
- Arthritis in the joint
- Jaw trauma or injury
- Chronic stress and tension
- Poor posture, especially affecting the head and neck
Dr. Denise Henderson takes a comprehensive approach to TMJ evaluation, looking beyond symptoms to identify root causes and create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Our TMJ Therapy Options
We provide several non-invasive therapies designed to reduce discomfort and restore jaw function over time:
Custom Nightguards (Occlusal Splints)
Nightguards are worn while sleeping to prevent grinding and clenching that can worsen TMJ symptoms. These appliances reposition your jaw to reduce strain and cushion the joint.
Bite Adjustment (Occlusal Equilibration)
If your TMJ issues are caused by an uneven bite, selective reshaping of certain tooth surfaces can help balance your bite and reduce pressure on the joints.
Stress Management Techniques
Because stress often triggers clenching, Dr. Henderson may recommend lifestyle strategies or coordinate with wellness providers to help manage contributing stressors.
Referral for Physical Therapy or Specialist Collaboration
In more complex cases, we collaborate with physical therapists, orthodontists, or oral surgeons to provide coordinated care that addresses muscle function and joint mechanics.
Botox® for TMJ Relief
For patients with persistent jaw tension or muscle-related TMJ symptoms, therapeutic Botox injections can offer significant relief. While Botox is widely known for cosmetic use, its muscle-relaxing properties make it a powerful tool in reducing TMJ-related pain and clenching.
How does Botox help with TMJ?
Botox is injected into overactive jaw muscles—usually the masseter and temporalis—to reduce tension and involuntary contractions. This targeted muscle relaxation can:
- Alleviate jaw soreness and tension headaches
- Reduce nighttime grinding and clenching
- Prevent further wear on teeth
- Improve range of motion
The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and often provides relief within days. Results typically last 3–4 months, and treatment can be repeated as needed.
Is Botox right for you?
Botox may be recommended for patients who haven't found full relief with splints or bite adjustment alone, or for those with significant muscle overactivity contributing to their TMJ symptoms. During your consultation, Dr. Henderson will assess whether Botox therapy fits your personalized care plan.
How We Diagnose TMJ Disorder
Dr. Henderson begins with a thorough consultation and physical examination. We’ll assess your jaw alignment, muscle tension, range of motion, and bite, as well as review your symptoms and health history.
Advanced imaging may be recommended to get a clearer view of your joint structures. Our goal is not only to treat pain but to restore long-term balance and function.
Who Can Benefit from TMJ Therapy?
TMJ therapy is designed for anyone struggling with:
- Persistent jaw discomfort or clicking
- Chronic headaches that haven’t responded to other treatments
- Jaw tension or soreness caused by stress or sleep habits
- Difficulty chewing, speaking, or yawning comfortably
- Facial muscle tightness or fatigue
- Previous trauma to the jaw or face
Even mild symptoms can worsen over time without treatment. If your jaw discomfort is impacting your quality of life, we encourage you to explore your options for relief.
Why Choose Dr. Denise Henderson for TMJ Care?
Dr. Denise Henderson is known for her whole-body approach to dentistry. With over 10 years serving patients in Palo Alto, she blends cutting-edge diagnostics with a calm, compassionate presence that makes every visit feel personal.
When you choose our office for TMJ therapy, you benefit from:
- A detailed, patient-first evaluation process
- Non-invasive treatment options customized to your needs
- Clear communication at every step
- Gentle care in a relaxing environment
- Ongoing support for prevention and maintenance
Take the First Step Toward Jaw Pain Relief
Don’t let jaw tension, headaches, or limited motion control your daily life. With the right care, TMJ symptoms can be managed—often without surgery or medication. Let us help you move comfortably and live well again.
Call (650) 327-4755 or schedule your consultation online to learn more about TMJ therapy at Denise Henderson DDS in Palo Alto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TMJ therapy painful?
No. All of our therapies are designed to relieve discomfort, not cause it. Treatment is gentle, gradual, and tailored to your level of pain and jaw function.
How long does TMJ treatment take?
Some patients experience relief within weeks, while others may need ongoing support. We’ll regularly assess your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
Will insurance cover TMJ therapy?
Coverage varies by provider. Some plans cover nightguards or specific procedures. Our team will help you navigate your benefits.
Can stress really cause jaw pain?
Yes. Chronic clenching from stress is one of the most common contributors to TMJ discomfort. Addressing stress can significantly improve symptoms.
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Restore Balance. Relieve Pain. Reclaim Comfort.
At Denise Henderson DDS, we believe your dental care should improve how you feel every day. If you're experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, we're here to help you find lasting relief—starting with a conversation.