Botox for TMJ: Find Out Why You Should Consider Trying It!

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint. And while that is quite a mouthful, what it describes is the joint that connects your jaws. Unfortunately, many people suffer from a painful condition called TMJ disorder, and since you use this joint for everything from eating to talking, TMJ syndrome can have a negative impact on your life. Thankfully, Botox has shown the ability to provide an effective long-term solution.

Surprised? That’s perfectly natural. Most people know that Botox is used as a cosmetic procedure, and most of our patients choose Botox injections to smooth wrinkles, as it is very effective when used on the forehead, around the eyes, and around the mouth. But for those suffering from TMJ, it can make the difference between pain and living without having to constantly think about their condition.

A Quick Look at What Botox Does

Botox is a weak dose of botulinum toxin. It acts on the nerves, making them weaker or blocking their signals. This is not a permanent effect, and your body will eliminate it, requiring a new dose after several months.

This is true both for cosmetic treatments and for TMJ. But how exactly can Botox help with this condition? Let us first examine why TMJ disorder happens.

TMJ Disorder – Risk Factors and Symptoms

The main cause of TMJ disorder is stress. And it is not just the stress from being very busy all the time, as being in pain or going through emotional trauma also generates stress.

In turn, this stress affects the nerves. The nerve endings around your jaw will pass on the signal, and your muscles will contract.

Thus, you may suffer from various painful symptoms, such as:

• Painful cheeks, jaw, and neck
• Swelling in your face
• Clicking noises when you open and close your mouth
• Headaches
• Uncontrollable clenching and grinding of your teeth
• Flash pain in your face.

How does Botox for TMJ work to help you find relief?

Botox for TMJ Improves Your Quality of Life

Since Botox weakens or blocks the nerves, stressful signals will not reach the jaw muscles. This means that your muscles will stay relaxed, and you will no longer be in pain.

Although this article is on the topic of TMJ, other people can benefit from this treatment as well. Many people suffer from uncontrollable clenching of teeth without suffering from TMJ disorder, and this happens mostly as they sleep. In time, their teeth get damaged. After using Botox, this involuntary movement stops, providing relief.

How Long Does Botox for TMJ Last?

There is no permanent cure for TMJ. Also, as we explained above, Botox does not stay in your body forever. In our experience, most patients need to come back for a new dose after 4 months, but it varies depending on the individual. Whereas some may need to come in sooner, others will only need the treatment twice per year.

We encourage you to learn more about our Botox services and schedule an initial appointment!