Botox for TMJ Disorder

TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder is an abnormal jaw condition characterized by frequent jaw pain. It can affect jaw movement and cause frequent headaches, but the disorder has several courses of treatment. Some people experience relief over time without treatment, but it is still a good idea to visit a doctor. Here is some information on Botox for TMJ disorders.

Botox Treatment for TMJ

Botox is a neurotoxin protein that can help treat TMJ symptoms. It is not the only treatment option for TMJ disorder, but it can help provide pain relief. It can reduce jaw tension, headaches caused by teeth grinding, and lockjaw that results from severe stress.

Studies have shown that Botox can reduce pain and increase jaw movement for about three months after treatment. It is effective for some people, but it is still experimental as a TMJ disorder treatment.

Side Effects of Botox for TMJ

Some patients experience positive results after Botox treatment, but others report some side effects. These include:

• Headaches.
  
  

• Nausea.
  
  

• Respiratory infection.
  
  

• Flu-like symptoms.
  
  

• Temporary eyelid droop.
  
  

• Pain.
  
  

• Muscle weakness.
  
  

• Bruising.
  
  

• Redness.
  
  

• The paralyzing effect of the injections can cause effects that can last for weeks.

During TMJ Botox Treatment

Doctors perform this non-surgical outpatient procedure in three treatment sessions that last 10 to 30 minutes each over several months. They inject Botox into the temple, forehead, jaw muscles, or other areas based on the patient’s symptoms. They will also determine the number of injections the patient needs.

Although patients feel the prick of the injection, a numbing cream or cold pack can help ease the pain.

Results of Botox Treatment

In most cases, patients experience improvements a day or two after treatment. In some cases, the effects become apparent several days after treatment. So, one can return to regular activities immediately after treatment. However, it is vital to avoid massaging or rubbing the treatment area for some hours after the treatment.

Botox treatment is safe and effective for TMJ disorders, despite the results being temporary. Furthermore, the treatment does not deal with the underlying cause of the disorder.

Short-Term Solution

Botox does not address bite issues and other problems related to the mouth structure responsible for TMJ. The injections limit the function of the jaw muscles, provide pain relief, and reduce TMJ symptoms. The results wear off after a few months, meaning that the symptoms may soon return. Patients require more injections to enjoy continuous or long-term relief. This treatment option can end up being quite costly, especially without insurance coverage.

Doctors will examine and analyze your symptoms to find the best treatment for your condition. Unfortunately, Botox injections interfere with the diagnosis of TMJ disorder since doctors need to analyze muscle movement when diagnosing the condition. If other treatment options fail to produce the desired results, you can get Botox injections.

For more on Botox for TMJ disorder, visit Midtown Dental Center at our office in Atlanta, Georgia. You can call (404) 874-0800 today to schedule an appointment.