Botox for TMJ
When many patients think of restorative dental procedures, treatments such as fillings and crowns come to mind. However, restorative dentistry involves much more than simply repairing cavities. Our professionals at Central Dental Specialists are skilled at all aspects of restorative care so that you can have a better quality of life.
With that in mind, we offer comprehensive treatment options for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Temporomandibular joint dysfunction or TMJ disorder is a condition where the jaw joint and surrounding muscles are compromised. The result is pain and extreme discomfort. The joint acts like a hinge between your skull and jawbone. Therefore, if it is compromised, movement of the joint can be affected and become very painful.
The symptoms of this condition range from mild discomfort to serious functional issues. However, our team can help you take your life back through our custom approach.
What Causes TMJ?
TMJ has multiple causes. One of the most common is arthritis in the joint itself. This can be due to age or a genetic abnormality. The swelling in the joint can limit your range of motion and result in compounding issues, such as difficulty chewing.
TMJ can also be caused by trauma. If you are involved in a serious accident that results in damage to your TMJ, then you could develop a disorder. Trauma-related TMJ often requires more invasive interventions to correct the problem.
Botox as a Solution to TMJ
For severe cases of TMJ, our team will need to resort to more involved treatments. One approach involves the use of Botox injections into the joint. This can relieve inflammation and provide lasting relief for many patients. Botox has been growing in popularity as a solution for TMJ.
How the Treatment Works
Finding the root cause of TMJ is particularly difficult and is often impossible. Therefore, most dentists aim at alleviating the symptoms. Primary symptoms include jaw pain and reduced mobility of the jawbone. Headaches are also experienced.
Botox treatments for TMJ usually take two or three sessions. The solution is injected into the affected areas, usually the jaw hinge, temple, and forehead. The number of injections will depend on how compromised the area is. There are aftercare instructions after the Botox treatment, as mobility is limited before you can regain function. A numbing cream or cold compress is recommended.
How Soon Before Relief?
Do not expect to experience relief immediately after treatment. Some symptoms may subside after a few days, but only after a week can you know if the treatment was effective. Multiple sessions are necessary to determine the success of the Botox treatment. You will have to maintain regular treatments for significant improvement. Results will last between three and six months depending on the treatment’s success.
Candidates for Botox TMJ Treatment
Not everyone is a good candidate for using Botox to treat TMJ. You should have a conclusive evaluation by a doctor first to see if this is appropriate for you. The success of the treatment largely depends on the patient. If you are wondering if Botox can treat TMJ, contact us at Central Dental Specialists at (781) 438-6618 for more information.