BOTOX® as an Alternative Treatment for TMD
Temporomandibular joint disorders
(TMD or TMJ), are notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat. Many of the related symptoms, such as
headaches and earaches, often lead doctors to diagnose a sinus condition, as opposed to a problem with the
jaw joint. TMD symptoms often change in severity, depending on how much stress the sufferer is
experiencing. During an intensely stressful period, grinding teeth, debilitating earaches, and lockjaw
may occur.
BOTOX® injections are
sometimes an effective and painless way to alleviate tension in the temporomandibular joint, reducing jaw
pain, headaches, and suffering.
BOTOX® is
commonly associated with cosmetic practices, including eliminating glabellar lines and facial
wrinkles. Recently
however, BOTOX® has
become an increasingly popular TMD treatment. Although some TMD symptoms may improve without any
specific
treatment, BOTOX® offers
fast and long-lasting relief for those that do not.
Here are several of the
major benefits BOTOX®
offers TMD sufferers:
- Elimination of
headaches caused by nighttime grinding.
- Minimization of
lockjaw.
- Reduced discomfort
when using the jaw.
- Reduced shoulder
and neck pain.
- Substantially
reduced jaw tension.
How
does BOTOX®
work?
The temporomandibular
joint is located on both sides of the head where the skull adjoins the jawbone. This joint is
constantly being used for a variety of daily activities, such as chewing, biting, speaking, and
swallowing. The most prominent causes of TMD are jaw displacement and stress-related involuntary
jaw movements.
BOTOX® expediently
alleviates temporomandibular tension by relaxing the jaw muscles, thus preventing unconscious jaw
movement and ending grinding-related headaches.
One of the major
advantages of BOTOX® is
that normal functions such as speaking, swallowing, and biting are left unaffected. The only major
change is the reduction in pain and discomfort. In addition, controlling TMD can also prevent
serious dental problems from occurring later. TMD, if left untreated, can contribute to tooth decay, gum
disease, and the loosening of teeth.
What’s
involved when
getting BOTOX®
injections?
Prior to
administering BOTOX®
injections, the dentist needs to check the patient’s suitability for treatment. When used in
conjunction with certain medications and
substances, BOTOX® may
not produce the desired results. It is exceptionally important therefore, to be honest about prior
medical history.
BOTOX® is not recommended
for pregnant or lactating women.
The BOTOX®
injections take 10-20 minutes to administer, depending on the amount required. Because it is
non-surgical, the BOTOX®
procedure will be performed at the dental office. Driving ability will not be impaired by the
treatment, so there is no need for a designated driver. The injections are no more painful than a
bug bite or pinprick.
Normal activity can be
resumed immediately after
the BOTOX® treatment, but
strenuous activity should be avoided for 24 hours after treatment. It may take 3-14 days to feel
the full benefits of the treatment,
but BOTOX® will continue
to work for up to 3 months.
If you have any
questions or concerns about TMD or
BOTOX® treatment,
please call (410) 257-2424 or email our office.