How Is Botox Used To Treat TMJ in Dentistry? 

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word "Botox?" Most probably, you think of wrinkle reduction, lips enhancement, and other cosmetic procedures. 

But did you know that Botox is also used in TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders therapy? Here's how it works and who can benefit from it. 

Understanding TMJ Disorders

A TMJ disorder refers to any condition that affects the jaw joints and the surrounding muscles. Accidents, simple wear and tear, or oral health conditions like an improper bite can trigger these disorders. 

Common symptoms of TMJ include:

• Jaw pain
• Headaches and earaches
• Pain in the neck or shoulders
• Difficulty opening your mouth wide
• Jaws that "lock" when you open or close your mouth
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing your mouth
• Difficulty chewing
• Tinnitus, or ringing in your ears.
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together
• Swelling on the side of your face
• Tooth pain

As we said, TMJ disorders can have different causes, such as:

• Stress
• Grinding and clenching the teeth
• TMJ arthritis 
• Trauma 
• Incorrect bite

How Can Botox Help Treat TMJ?

Botox may help address symptoms related to TMJ disorders, especially if other methods have not given results. 

Botox can help with TMJ symptoms by reducing or treating:

• Jaw tension 
• Headaches (they are usually caused by teeth grinding)
• Jaw locking during intense stress 

Botox does this by relaxing the jaw muscles. This stops clenching and grinding at night, providing relief from pain and discomfort. However, while Botox by itself it effective, it's usually recommended to be used with another TMJ disorder therapy.

How Does the Treatment Work?

Botox is a non-surgical procedure that takes between 10 to 30 minutes. The dentist will inject the substance into the forehead, temple, and jaw muscles. However, the doctor will choose the best areas where to inject the Botox based on the symptoms each patient experiences. 

After the treatment, the doctor will give you a set of recommendations with what to do after, how many times you need to use Botox and what to expect.

Usually, the patient can return to their normal activities after they leave the doctor’s office. 

Interested in Botox TMJ Therapy in San Francisco? Call Us Now

Are you struggling with TMJ disorder and are looking for a way to get some relief from your pain? While only temporary, Botox can be an effective treatment, especially when cleverly paired with other therapies. 

At Sutter Dental Collective in SF, we offer TMJ/TMD therapy and can help you reduce your discomfort as well as the risk of developing other dental problems. 

We have a team of skilled doctors that are focused and dedicated to improving your oral health. 

If you want to book an appointment with Dr. Joyce Stein, contact us today.