A Higher Standard of Care:TMJ Disorders
Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders are a group of problems related to the compound jaw joint. If someone
has symptoms like a “clicking” sound or pain, they will be glad to know that these problems may be easily
diagnosed and treated. Some types of TMJ problems may lead to more serious conditions. Early detection and
treatment of these problems is important. Treatment takes time to be effective. There is no one treatment
that can resolve TMJ disorders.
How TMJ Disorders Develop
There are many reasons TMJ disorders develop. A person might grind or clench their teeth. This causes tightening of the jaw muscles which results in stress to the temporo-mandibular joint. The jaw joint may be damaged due to disease or injury. The symptoms may include pain, clicking, grating noises, or a misaligned bite upon opening mouth, as well as difficulty in opening wide.
Treatment of TMJ Disorder
Dr. Shabtaie can utilize different treatment options to improve function of the jaw. Dr. Shabtaie will discuss a proper course of treatment once the evaluation confirms diagnosis of a TMJ disorder. It is important that the patient understand that self-care is important to treatment as well as professional care.
Botox and TMJ
Botox is used as an alternative treatment for TMJ (Temporo-mandibular joint) disorders and associated jaw tension and pain. When injected into facial muscles afflicted with soreness and discomfort, Botox may relieve TMJ and jaw tension. The injections often eliminate headaches resulting from teeth grinding, and, in cases of severe stress, Botox can even minimize lock jaw. Located on both sides of the head at the point where the jawbone meets the skull, the temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) is used during talking, eating, swallowing, and other everyday activities. If this joint becomes displaced or is overworked through excessive teeth grinding, a person may suffer severe tension headaches, as well as sharp pain in the jaw. Botox relieves jaw tension by making muscles unable to engage in the powerful, often unconscious movement of the jaw that produces headaches and pain. A non-surgical procedure, Botox injections are administered in a doctor’s office. Most patients experience noticeable improvement within one or two days of their first treatment, although relief can take up to a week.
Benefits of Botox Treatment
For people suffering from soreness and pain resulting from problems with the temporo-mandibular joint, Botox injections often provide substantial relief. While reducing the ability of facial muscles to engage in problematic grinding, Botox allows them to perform daily activities such as talking, chewing, and swallowing. This makes the Botox treatment for jaw tension a convenient, effective option for many people. In addition, the treatment can help safeguard dental health, since excessive grinding can result in worn teeth and damaged gums that may require costly treatment. In fact, many people who do not see results from conventional treatments often can benefit from Botox injections.
