TMJ Therapy
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What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull, is one of the most complex joints in your body. It utilizes both a hinge action and sliding motions to enable your jaw to move up and down and side to side. Your lower jaw has rounded ends that move in and out of the joint socket when you perform routine functions such as talking, chewing and yawning. Cartilage covers the bones of the joint, and shock-absorbing disks separate the joint’s ball and socket to ensure that all movements are smooth.
However, when this joint is out of alignment, you can suffer debilitating pain, discomfort, and a loss of function.
What Can Cause TMJ?
Due to the complexity of the TMJ, it is often difficult to determine the exact cause. The condition can develop from an injury to the jaw, TMJ, head muscles or neck muscles. Often, these injuries are caused by a jarring blow or whiplash.
Other possible causes of TMD include:
Misaligned teeth
Pressure on the TMJ caused by grinding or clenching your teeth
Dislocation of the disk separating the ball and socket of the TMJ
Damage to the cartilage of the TMJ caused by arthritis
Stress which may result in a tightening of the facial and jaw muscles
Allergies and breathing problems
Missing teeth
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Diagnosing TMJ Disorder/TMD
Most people become aware of the fact that they have TMD when they start to experience
significant jaw pain, especially when they wake up in the morning. Eventually, it can lead to severe
daily headaches and damage to your teeth. If you suspect that you have TMD in Houston, you
should visit our dentists as soon as possible for a thorough examination. We will examine your jaw
as you move it around and listen carefully to the sound that it makes. The dentist will observe your
range of motion and press on different areas of the joint in order to assess whether or not you likely
have TMD. If we suspect that you have TMD, we may order x-rays in order to confirm.
Patients love it here
My husband and I visited Palm Valley Dental, and it was a rewarding experience. Dr. Torres and Dr. Trevino are so patient, knowledgeable and professional. Caleb, the Dental Hygienist is also very thorough and courteous. The office staff are so pleasant and helpful as well.
Adalia De Luna
Literally, the first time ever at dentist, went in terrified, left informed on my dental care/plan, and scheduled my return visit for the in depth cleaning. Overall, great experience, staff & doctor were attentive, professional and very receptive to all my questions and even the nervousness I displayed.
Sandra Palomo
I love this place. Aside from the amazing and comprehensive dental services, customer service and my time are really important to me. It is rare to find everything I care about in one place.
Karla DeWald
Dr. Treviño and staff are wonderful!! Very clean environment. Dr is so good I had a filling adjustment without being numbed up!! If that doesn't tell you how good they are, I don't know what will!!
Issa Garcia
I love this place. Aside from the amazing and comprehensive dental services, customer service and my time are really important to me. It is rare to find everything I care about in one place.
Karla DeWald
After experiencing a few negative experiences at a previous dental practice, I cautiously decided to try this new dental place. I had a wonderful first visit here and felt a great relief after my appointment. Everyone I encountered was so kind and friendly, and all my concerns and questions were addressed. I highly recommend. 😊