How Botox Helps With TMJ Pain

October 25, 2016

TMJ, known in its long form as temporomandibular joint dysfunction, is a common ailment that pains more than 3 million Americans each year. This issue can arise when the hinged joint of a person’s jaw is misaligned or inflamed. While there are a few different ways to treat TMJ, Botox has risen as a popular and effective option. Here is some information regarding the symptoms of TMJ and how Botox can help.

Kinds of Pain From TMJ

TMJ can cause pain in a few different places on your head, including your face, ear, jaw or mouth. This pain can make it difficult to chew and can give you a feeling that your jaw is stiff or locked, even when it isn’t. Moving your jaw can cause a clicking sound and, in rare cases, may cause your jaw to lock up. Headaches and muscle spasms are also possible symptoms of TMJ and should be looked at by your dentist.

How Botox Can Help

A Botox injection relaxes certain muscles in your face, depending on where the injection site is. This relaxing of the muscles around your jaw prevents small, often unconscious movements in this painful area and can give you a relief from pain associated with TMJ. The effects are usually felt within 24 to 48 hours after the injection.

Frequency of Treatment

Botox eventually wears off and some people will go some time afterward without experiencing pain. If TMJ was caused by inflammation, then Botox gives your joint time to heal and may not require frequent treatment. For other causes, you may receive multiple Botox injections, typically spaced about three to four months apart.

If you are experiencing jaw pain or difficulty chewing, it could be TMJ. This pain can lead to uncomfortable headaches and is best treated by a medical professional with experience in TMJ treatments. Call our office to schedule an appointment and find out if Botox is the right treatment for your TMJ pain.

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