Monroe Township NJ While BOTOX® is most commonly considered a cosmetic treatment, our dentist can also use this injectable medication to help manage TMJ disorder, or TMD, and other conditions. When you visit Monroe Smiles, Dr. Sari Klerer will assess your mouth and jaw to determine if you could benefit from BOTOX. To schedule your consultation and learn more about BOTOX for TMJ in Monroe Township, New Jersey, call us today at 609-655-3555.
TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, which is a condition that causes pain and dysfunction in the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. The disorder can also cause clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw, as well as pain in your face, neck, shoulders and back. While there is no one definitive cause of TMD, it can be brought on by stress, teeth grinding or clenching, misalignment of the teeth or jaws, dislocation of the temporomandibular joint, or injury to the head or neck.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for TMD, and treatment will vary depending on the individual case. In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers may be enough to provide relief. In other cases, more personalized treatments may be necessary, such as physical therapy, bite plates or mouth guards to prevent teeth grinding, BOTOX injections, or surgery.
BOTOX injections are a relatively new treatment option for TMD, but they have been shown to be effective in reducing pain and restoring function in the jaw. The injection works by relaxing the muscles that are responsible for clenching and grinding the teeth, which in turn reduces the amount of stress on the temporomandibular joint. BOTOX injections are generally well tolerated and have very few side effects. The most common side effect is temporary bruising or swelling at the injection site.
There are several reasons why BOTOX may be recommended as a treatment for TMD. First, it is a nonsurgical option that can provide relief from pain and inflammation. Second, BOTOX is a relatively safe and effective treatment option with few side effects. Finally, it lowers your chance of developing migraines and allows you to chew without pain.
If you have any questions about non-cosmetic BOTOX to treat TMD, please give us a call.