If you suffer from TMJ problems, migraines, or frequent headaches, dermal fillers such as BOTOX®, may be able to help you find some relief.
Yes! You heard correctly; BOTOX ® is more than a cosmetic treatment; it is often used to treat a range of pain and discomfort caused by issues with the TMJ as well.
How BOTOX® Works to Relieve Pain
BOTOX® is a solution that causes temporary muscle paralysis. BOTOX® relaxes muscles rather than paralyzing them and is highly beneficial for treating certain kinds of reoccurring pain.
BOTOX® works by relaxing the muscles that cause the associated discomfort brought on with TMJ problems, as well as migraines and tension headaches. This alternative treatment alleviates the conditions caused by stress, or by an overworked temporomandibular joint.
Treating the muscles of the TMJ joint with BOTOX® means it can no longer make the tense contractions that lead to TMJ pain or tension-related headaches and migraines.
BOTOX® works specifically on muscles; it’s important to diagnose the source of your pain before having BOTOX® treatment. If the source of your pain is not muscular, then BOTOX® may not be right for you.
BOTOX® Treatment from Your Dentist
Dental professionals who are trained in BOTOX® therapy for TMJ and other orofacial discomfort issues can safely administer treatment to you — making BOTOX® a highly successful treatment that can often provide several months of relief.
When you are receiving relief from BOTOX® treatment, your dentist injects a tiny dose of BOTOX® to the affected muscle or muscles, using a very thin needle. These needles are so fine they can barely be felt. However, many professionals use a numbing agent to ensure better there’s no discomfort during treatment.
Your BOTOX® appointment time depends on how many locations need to be injected. Once the BOTOX® is applied, it may take a few days to come into full effect. You may notice some mild redness at the injection site, which will recede in about a day or two.
The effects of a single BOTOX® injection often last around 5 to 6 months, so repeat treatments are needed to maintain the pain-relieving effects. However, because BOTOX® relaxes the muscles and prevents them from causing painful symptoms, the treatment also provides time for the muscles and joint to rest and heal. Some people find that their TMJ symptoms subside to a manageable level after about one or two rounds of BOTOX® treatment.
If you or a loved one are experiencing discomfort brought on by the repercussions of TMJ disorder, we encourage you to call Dental Arts of Totowa. Dr. Zoya Mitelberg is a member of the Academy of Facial Aesthetics and is certified to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate TMD relief with BOTOX® treatment.