Temporomandibular joint disorder, more commonly known as TMJ, is a condition that affects the jaw muscles and joints responsible for allowing you to speak, chew, and yawn. Symptoms of TMJ can range from mild discomfort to chronic pain that impacts your day-to-day activities. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ. One treatment option is Botox injections. Let’s look at how Botox works to help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ and what you need to know before considering this treatment. Remember, Botox is a name brand, and there are other great options with similar efficacies
What are the Symptoms of TMJ?
Symptoms of TMJ vary from person to person but may include headaches, jaw pain or tenderness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), difficulty chewing or speaking, aching pain in and around the ear area, neck aches, shoulder pain, dizziness, facial swelling or tenderness on one side of your face. In some cases the jaw may even become stuck in an open or closed position due to tight muscles and ligaments.
How Does Botox Help?
(other than botox, xeomin, Dysport, etc., are other neuromodulators that can be used)
Botox injections work by blocking nerve signals in certain areas of your face which helps relax overworked muscles around your jaw and cheekbones. This allows those muscles to rest which reduces tension in the area and alleviates pain associated with TMJ. The effects can last up to three months depending on your particular case but it may take multiple treatments over several weeks or months for optimal results. It is important to consult with a doctor before undergoing any type of treatment for TMJ as medications such as ibuprofen can also be used for temporary relief from symptoms.
What Else Should I Know?
When considering any type of medical procedure it’s important to do research beforehand so that you are well informed about potential risks involved. With Botox injections there is always a risk of allergic reaction or infection although these risks are rare when performed by a qualified medical professional using sterile equipment. Make sure you discuss all possible side effects with your doctor prior to undergoing any type of treatment including Botox injections for TMJ so that you have realistic expectations about what kind of results you can expect from this procedure.
Conclusion:
TMJ is a painful condition that can cause significant disruption in everyday life if left untreated. Fortunately there are treatments available such as Botox injections that can help provide relief from symptoms associated with this disorder. Before considering any type of medical procedure it’s important to do research beforehand so that you understand potential risks involved as well as what kind of results you can realistically expect from this type of treatment. If you think that botulinum toxin might be right for you then make sure you talk with a qualified healthcare provider first before making any decisions about your care plan moving forward.