The temporomandibular joints, or TMJ, connect the jaw to the skull and allow it to move around during speech and the chewing process. If these joints become misaligned, they can cause a variety of issues such as teeth grinding, difficulty chewing or speaking, popping or clicking when moving the jaw, or chronic pain such as backaches, headaches, and neckaches. Here’s how BOTOX injections work as well as how they may be able to address these issues.
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joints are used for speech and chewing every day, and imbalances or misalignments within these joints can lead to unpleasant issues that can disrupt your day-to-day life. One of the most common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction is teeth grinding or other abnormal wear from the teeth not coming together properly when they chew. TMJ disorders can often lead to flattened eyeteeth and incisors, but other symptoms include jaw pain or tightness, headaches, earaches, trouble chewing, or the jaw not opening or closing properly.
Can BOTOX Help TMJ Dysfunction?
BOTOX injections use a small amount of botulinum toxin to temporarily immobilize muscles. While this is usually associated with treating wrinkles by making muscles hold the skin tighter, it can also be used to relieve the tension in the muscles of the TMJ. By immobilizing these muscles that make powerful but often involuntary movements that exhaust the jaw, BOTOX can often prevent teeth grinding and the other painful issues that can come with TMJ disorder.
Is BOTOX Safe?
As long as BOTOX is administered by a qualified medical professional, there is no reason to worry about any side effects. The amount of botulinum toxin in a BOTOX injection is incredibly small, and it only causes temporary effects. The muscles treated will eventually become fully mobile after a few months, making further BOTOX injections necessary to maintain the results of the treatment.
BOTOX has allowed many people to speak, eat, and live more comfortably with a TMJ disorder. Consulting with your dentist can help determine if you can be a good candidate for this treatment.
About the Practice
Devonshire Dental of Boston delivers superior oral health services to the community of Boston, MA. Led by Drs. Dean Levy, Christa Rizkallah, Annie Amsalem, and Christine Melito, the staff ensures that each patient receives effective treatments that address their needs. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as TMJ treatments. If you suspect that your TMJ is out of alignment, contact the practice online or dial (617) 350-7474.