Can Botox® Treat Your TMJ Disorder?

Botox® is a name that has earned a favorable reputation in anti-aging with simple injections. Botox® is a neuromodulator injection, which means it relaxes the targeted muscles and prevents them from contracting repeatedly and forming deep lines or wrinkles in the face. While Botox® can certainly be used aesthetically to compliment your cosmetic dental procedure, it can also be used as an alternative treatment for TMJ (temporo-mandibular joint) disorders.

A qualified dentist who is trained to administer Botox® may be able to relieve your chronic jaw tension with this type of treatment. TMJ disorders are often a result of excessive strain on the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull on either side of the head. This joint is used when we speak, swallow and eat. However, when someone clenches their jaw or overworks the muscle (teeth grinding), the powerful tension within this jaw muscle can eventually produce disruptive symptoms. TMJ disorders are associated with headaches, jaw pain, lock jaw and other problems. If you are one that suffers from TMJ symptoms, you know that it can greatly affect one’s quality of life.

How does Botox® treat TMJ disorders? When injected strategically into the targeted jaw muscles that are overworked (typically the temporalis, frontalis and masseter), Botox® relaxes these muscles and prevents them from powerfully engaging. Most patients experience a noticeable improvement in their TMJ symptoms within days of their first treatment. Keep in mind that this is a temporary treatment and may need to be repeated after 3-5 months if the root cause of your TMJ problems still exists.

When administered by a qualified dental specialist, Botox® offers the following advantages as an effective jaw pain treatment:

• Quick results
• Straightforward, safe procedure
• Non-surgical, minimally invasive
• In-office treatment
• No lingering or disruptive side effects
• Can help patients avoid wearing a mouthguard
• Reduce the appearance of a square jaw
• Relief for headaches associated with teeth clenching and grinding

Curious if Botox® can relieve your TMJ discomfort? Call RIVKIN Aesthetics today. We are a qualified Botox® provider in Beverly Hills that stays at the forefront of modern dermatology and non-surgical cosmetic services. We value the importance of a mouth and jaw that is both attractive and comfortable!