Botox has been widely used for cosmetic purposes to reduce wrinkles and fine lines on the face. However, it has also been shown to provide therapeutic benefits for a range of medical conditions, including temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). TMJ can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, affecting a person’s ability to speak, chew, and even sleep. Botox injections can help alleviate TMJ symptoms by relaxing the muscles in the affected area, reducing pain and discomfort. Botox also has a long-lasting effect, typically lasting for several months. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking relief from TMJ symptoms without resorting to surgery or other invasive treatments. Overall, the benefits of botox in treating TMJ can lead to improved quality of life for those suffering from this condition.
What are TMJ and Bruxism? (Teeth Grinding Conditions)
TMJ disorder (also referred to as TMD) and bruxism are two different conditions that can both have a negative effect on the proper functioning of the mouth and oral health.
Bruxism is the medical term for unconscious teeth clenching and grinding, either while awake or asleep, which can lead to physical pain and severe dental problems. Chronic teeth grinding can cause headaches, earaches, facial pain, and even migraines.
Dental problems from bruxism include loss of tooth enamel, increased tooth sensitivity, and flattening and/or chipping of the teeth. Bruxism sufferers who grind and clench their teeth while sleeping frequently wake up with a sore jaw. Hypertrophy of the masseter muscle, which may lead to the appearance of a severe square jaw, is another side effect of bruxism.
While you may be unaware of your grinding, your dentist should notice signs of bruxism during regular visits.
Symptoms of bruxism include:
Abnormal teeth wear and chipped teeth
Sensitive teeth caused by enamel wear
Pain and tension in the jaw and ears
TMJ/TMD Symptoms are very similar to those of bruxism.
TMJ/TMD Symptoms include:
Pain in the jaw, ears or face
Pain or tension in neck or shoulders
Constant headaches
Teeth grinding
As both conditions have very similar symptoms and are often related, it is important to see a dentist who is trained in all aspects of TMJ disorder if you suffer from any of the TMD/TMD symptoms.
Both of these conditions may cause a person significant discomfort and pain, but it can also lead to major issues with the teeth that can be extremely expensive to fix. If the underlying problem isn’t addressed, any expensive dental work will ultimately fail, leading to even more expenses. Often, with proper diagnosis and planning, both of these issues can be reduced or eliminated.
How Does Botulinum Toxin for Bruxism and TMJ/TMD Work?
Botox is an injectable used to relax muscles. The injection is often used to make wrinkles less noticeable. However, studies also support benefits in the management of Bruxism and TMJ/TMD by relaxing the muscles responsible for these conditions.
How will botox help patients with Bruxism or TMJ/TMD?
Botox injections for these conditions are typically used for:
Managing teeth grinding
Reducing jaw tension, pain and clenching
Relieving headaches
Softening a square jaw
Before the procedure
You will have a consultation with a medical provider to review your goals and concerns.
They will review your medical and dental history followed by an examination of the muscles being treated. This allows the provider to determine the appropriate dosing and treatment plan.
During the procedure
A medical professional will clean the skin to reduce risk of injection. A topical numbing agent or ice may be applied prior to injection. Using an extremely small needle, a series of painless injections will be placed into the muscles being treated. The procedure typically takes 15 minutes, with the injections themselves only taking a matter of minutes.
BOTOX Treatment for TMJ AND Bruxism
Dose & Pricing Range
Botox treatments range anywhere from 12 – 40 units per side. Assessment of symptoms, muscle size and strength will guide your provider in making the appropriate clinical recommendations.
As the expense will be out of pocket and not processed through your insurance provider, we have created a reduced pricing structure for the treatment of these dental conditions.
A 2-week follow up appointment is included in pricing and recommended to confirm you are having an appropriate response to treatment.
If you’re experiencing TMJ or Bruxism pain and discomfort, Concierge Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery, has experienced medical professionals specialize in providing safe and effective treatments for TMJ. Don’t suffer in silence any longer – complete a consultation request today. Let Concierge help you find relief from TMJ pain and regain control of your life.
Contact us now to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free future.
