Everyone recognizes the brand name Botox. It’s become synonymous with antiaging aesthetic treatments to diminish dynamic wrinkles (wrinkles that appear when you make specific facial expressions). But Botox has many more applications than just as a wrinkle relaxing injectable.
In fact, at Dogwood Face & Body, we use it to treat TMJ disorder—TMJ stands for “temporomandibular joint.” The TMJ, located on both sides of your face, connect your jawbone with your skull. Pain and tenderness in the jaw joints, stemming from teeth grinding, jaw injuries, or arthritis, are symptoms of TMJ disorder.
Keep reading to learn about how we use Botox for TMJ and your other treatment options to find relief.
What is Botox?
Botox is one brand name for a category of refined neurotoxins that block nerve signals to the muscles, preventing them from contracting. When injected into the forehead, temple, and jaw, Botox relaxes the muscles that contribute to clenching, grinding, and discomfort. This treatment can reduce the strain on your temporomandibular joint, alleviate tension, and improve jaw mobility.
At our Botox Spa, we offer 2 brands of neurotoxins: Xeomin and Botox. They both work effectively to relax muscles and provide you with relief from TMJ.
What about occlusal guards?
Many people also benefit from occlusal guards, which protect your enamel from teeth grinding. These devices, or night guards, help relieve TMJ symptoms by effectively reducing tension, promoting better alignment, and minimizing the risk of cracked teeth or joint pain.
Combined Treatments
Occlusal guards effectively work to treat TMJ and protect your teeth, but they still have their limits. Because you won’t wear them 24/7, they can’t prevent teeth clenching during the day.
For optimal relief and protection, pairing Botox with occlusal guards can help reduce grinding, calm overactive muscles, and relieve pain from TMJ.
The effects of Botox last for 2 to 4 months, so it requires ongoing treatments. We encourage you to use these routine visits to discuss your symptoms and ask any questions about TMJ.
Find Relief at Dogwood Face & Body
We can’t think of a better place to treat jaw pain than a clinic that combines the benefits of dentistry and aesthetics services. Want to find relief from headaches and jaw pain? Request an appointment to speak with an expert provider about Botox for TMJ in Waxhaw.
At our med spa, we also offer aesthetic services like lip filler, PDO threads, facials, and more. Using our treatment planning tool, you can select multiple concerns and receive a tailored care recommendation from a member of our team on different service options for your unique needs!
