BOTOX® & TMJ Treatment | Creekside
BOTOX® injections are gaining popularity in healthcare for applications beyond cosmetic enhancements, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By temporarily blocking nerve signals to muscles, BOTOX® can effectively alleviate symptoms of conditions like migraines, teeth grinding (bruxism), TMJ/TMD disorders, and muscle clenching.
How does BOTOX® work?
BOTOX® (botulinum toxin) temporarily inhibits muscle movement by blocking chemical signals from nerves that trigger muscle contractions. Administered by a qualified medical or healthcare professional, the injections target specific areas to deliver therapeutic or cosmetic benefits. Results typically begin to appear within a few days and last for several months, with follow-up treatments recommended as needed to maintain desired outcomes.
BOTOX® in dentistry
BOTOX® is a versatile treatment in dentistry, addressing various oral and dental health conditions, including:
Bruxism: Involuntary grinding, gnashing, or clenching of teeth.
TMD/TMJ Disorder: Dysfunction or inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, causing pain and impaired function.
Related Symptoms: Including headaches and jaw pain associated with bruxism or TMJ disorder.
BOTOX® is especially beneficial for individuals experiencing TMJ pain, headaches, or those unable to use a nightguard. By relaxing overactive muscles, it not only alleviates symptoms but also protects teeth from wear, cracking, and chipping caused by these conditions.
“I have been grinding and clenching my teeth since I was a child. I do it during the day and at night. I religiously wear a nightguard EVERY NIGHT but it is hard to wear a night guard during the day!! Not very socially acceptable..haha. The problem is that most people do not realize they are doing it so they cannot control it. Botox has become more and more popular over the years and I have had patients tell me their experience with it for alleviating their TMJ pain. I started doing my own research and became very interested so I received training in Botox administration from the Academy of Facial Esthetics. I even tried botox on myself. This has been a game changer for me. I didn’t realize how bad I was grinding and clenching and how much it affected me on a daily basis. I think we get used to the way certain things feel and we don’t realize how much it impacts our lives.”
Do I Still Need to Wear a Nightguard If I Get BOTOX®?
Yes. Nightguards remain an effective treatment for protecting your teeth from the damaging effects of unconscious grinding and clenching during sleep. They also help reposition the jaw to alleviate strain on the jaw joints. If your dentist has recommended a nightguard as part of your TMJ therapy or customized treatment plan, it is important to continue wearing it as directed.
BOTOX® is designed to complement the use of a nightguard, enhancing the overall effectiveness of your treatment. Additionally, BOTOX® may help extend the lifespan of your nightguard.
For patients who cannot wear a nightguard or tend to remove it during sleep, BOTOX® injections may offer an alternative solution. If you experience TMJ symptoms, teeth clenching, or grinding during the day, contact our office or schedule an appointment to learn more about the potential benefits of BOTOX® for your condition.
How Does BOTOX® Help Treat TMJ, Teeth Clenching, and Grinding?
BOTOX® injections target the jaw muscles, blocking nerve signals that trigger muscle clenching or tightening. For patients who grind or clench their teeth unconsciously, BOTOX® helps relax the muscles, providing temporary relief from strain on the jaw joints.
While BOTOX® can be an effective standalone treatment, optimal results are often achieved when used alongside a custom nightguard. This combination enhances relief during sleep, but BOTOX® also helps relax jaw muscles throughout the day, when teeth clenching and grinding may also occur.
For some patients, like Dr. Samantha, BOTOX® injections may be necessary for continuous, 24-hour relief and protection from the symptoms and effects of TMJ, teeth clenching, and grinding.
How Do I Know if BOTOX® Is Right for My Condition?
If you are experiencing TMJ pain, headaches, or difficulty wearing a nightguard (or if you tend to remove your nightguard during sleep), BOTOX® may be a suitable treatment for you. It is essential that BOTOX® injections for dental conditions be administered by a trained dental professional with expertise in the maxillofacial area. Dr. Samantha Tejada at WoodSprings Dentistry, a general and cosmetic dental practice serving the Creekside community in Spring, TX, is a qualified BOTOX® specialist who personally understands the benefits this therapy can offer for patients with these conditions.
For more information about BOTOX® injections for dental care in the Creekside community in Spring, TX, please contact our office or discuss your questions with Dr. Tejada during your next dental appointment.
Suffering from TMJ? The oral and dental health benefits available with BOTOX® injections are now offered at WoodSprings Dentistry, conveniently located and serving patients from the Creekside community in Spring, TX.