Will Botox® Help Relieve TMJ Pain?Boulder, CO
Botox® is commonly used in cosmetic surgery, however, more recently, TMJ specialists have been exploring its use for treating disorders and dysfunctions related to the temporomandibular joint. There are a number of treatment options for addressing TMJ, including at-home remedies, as well as more extensive procedures such as surgery. Botox® falls in the middle, being more involved than a simple ice pack or over-the-counter medication, but not as invasive as a surgical procedure.
While specialists do not recommend Botox® as a long-term treatment plan, the results can help relieve pain and reduce jaw locking, both of which are common symptoms that come from TMJ disorder and dysfunction. Ready to find out more?
Find TMJ pain relief through Botox®
Below is an overview of the use of Botox for relieving TMJ pain. This information can be helpful to review when looking into different treatment options.
How Botox works for TMJ
When Botox is used to treat TMJ symptoms, the process is relatively easy compared to other options. To start, the TMJ specialist will inject the Botox into the temporalis, frontalis or masseter, all of which are common sites that can help appropriately disperse the Botox agents. A gentle massage may be given afterward, which can help spread the Botox out, thus reaching the pain points.
The appointment typically takes less than 30 minutes and can be repeated up to three times over the course of three to four months. Depending on the severity of the pain associated with the TMJ disorder, the specialist may recommend further injections after the initial three.
Botox works to relieve TMJ pain by targeting the joints and muscles that have been affected. This usually includes the jawbone, oral cavity and temporomandibular joints themselves. Once it reaches these areas, the Botox agents work to relax and loosen up any tension that has built up due to the malfunction, thus resulting in less overall pain.
Results
The result of Botox for TMJ pain will likely not last forever. Over the course of treatment, the TMJ specialist will take special note of how well the patient reacts to the injections. If the reaction is positive then repeated injections may be done until the symptoms remedy. However, if Botox is not effective then the TMJ specialist may recommend a more extensive treatment plan, which may include a surgical procedure. Additionally, it is good to know that Botox is not known to be harmful to the body, however, long-term use is not recommended for any reason, whether it be related to TMJ or cosmetic purposes.
Learn more about treating TMJ with Botox®
When considering Botox to treat TMJ disorder or dysfunction, it can be helpful to consult with a dental professional who specializes in TMJ treatment. Questions can be answered and an evaluation can be done in order to determine the appropriate course of action, which may include Botox®. Reach out today to find out more or to get started with a consultation appointment.
We invite you to schedule a consultation with our dental office by calling (303) 578-5800 for an evaluation so that you can exhaust all options before considering escalating your treatment. Surgery is not something to be taken lightly and should only be performed as a last result. To further discuss our non-invasive solution, call (303) 578-5800 to speak with one of our team members today.
PeakView Dentistry is located at 1200 28th St Ste 300 Boulder, CO 80303.
Recent Posts
3 Reasons You Should See A Family Dentist To Treat Tooth Decay
A family dentist is the person to talk to if you or a family member has one or more decayed teeth. These oral professionals have the necessary training and experience to provide dental services to all your family members.Acids made by oral bacteria cause tooth decay by eating away at teeth structures. Bacteria convert the…
3 Tips For New Denture Users
Thinking you need some tips as a new denture user? The more you understand how to wear your new dentures, the less chance you have when it comes to experiencing any denture-related problems. The fact that your dentures play a very important role in your life makes it essential to do everything in your power…
What You Should Know About TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorders, refers to a group of issues related to mobility and discomfort around the jaw joints. The temporomandibular joints are the joints that link the lower jawbone (mandible) to the skull. More than any other joint in the body, these flexible joints are constantly in use, performing actions such as…
Are You Brushing Your Teeth The Right Way?
Brushing your teeth is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do to keep them healthy. It is an important part of your hygiene routine. It can be the difference between having a bright smile you can be proud of or ugly looking teeth you are reluctant to display.Simply brushing teeth every…
How Dental Exams Can Catch Possible Oral Risks
The importance of a dental exam often gets ignored. It can be easy to skip check-up appointments as life can get busy and most individuals think that at-home oral hygiene is enough to maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, this misconception is far from the truth. Dental exams give general dentists the opportunity to look at…