You may already know about all the incredible benefits BOTOX provides when it comes to reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the face. But what many patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction are surprised to learn is that this cosmetic injectable can often improve their painful jaw symptoms, too. Here’s how!
What is BOTOX?
BOTOX is the product name for a medication made from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It can be used for a variety of cosmetic purposes, mainly to temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for approximately four to six months. If used regularly, BOTOX can even slow the development of new wrinkles.
Additionally, BOTOX can be used to treat a variety of medical problems including excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) and to help ease the stiffness and discomfort in the temporomandibular joints due to TMJ dysfunction.
How Can BOTOX Help My TMJ Dysfunction Symptoms?
Because BOTOX works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals, it can be used to relax the muscles of the temporomandibular joint, which may become overworked or strained due to things like stress, genetics, bruxism (teeth grinding) and accidental injury.
Your dentist simply injects the BOTOX directly into the temporomandibular joints, creating relief that takes just a few days to fully come to fruition, and lasting from about four to six months before needing to be redone.
How Can I Get BOTOX for TMJ Dysfunction?
To treat your TMJ dysfunction symptoms with BOTOX, you’ll need to visit your dentist for a consultation first. At this time, he or she will examine your jaw, take appropriate X-rays or images, and then determine if BOTOX is right for you. If it is, your injections will take just moments to receive, and you’ll be able to return home without requiring any time off. You will need to limit physical activity for the rest of the day, and it is recommended that you keep your head elevated for at least a few hours after you’ve been treated, but beyond that, you should not require any additional downtime or dietary restrictions.
Although each person’s metabolism is different, you can expect your results to last for up to six months before needing to be redone; however, if you choose not to receive BOTOX again, you can rest assured that this will not make your symptoms worse. In fact, being treated even once often slows the progression of the condition, so even if you only get it once, you’ll likely still feel better than you might have if you hadn’t gotten BOTOX in the first place.
Rember, BOTOX can be used to treat a variety of ailments, including temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Don’t continue to suffer from unnecessary jaw pain and stiffness. Speak to your dentist today about treatment with BOTOX and enjoy all the benefits of a healthy, relaxed jaw.
About Our Practice
At Forever Young Dentistry Bayside, we’re proud to offer BOTOX treatment for both cosmetic and dental purposes. If you are suffering from the debilitating pain and jaw stiffness of TMJ dysfunction, don’t spend another day suffering. Contact us to learn more about how BOTOX can help relax overworked muscles and give you the long-lasting relief you deserve. To schedule your consultation, visit our website or call 586-277-0080.