BOTOX is most widely known as a cosmetic treatment – and rightfully so! The injections are minimally invasive and have been used to safely relax facial muscles and skin for decades. But did you know that BOTOX has many therapeutic uses as well?
If you suffer from chronic head or jaw pain, you should read this post to learn more about how BOTOX could help!
What is a TMJ And How Does BOTOX Help?
“TMJ” stands for temporomandibular joint. Basically, this is the joint that acts like a hinge for your upper and lower jawbone, allowing them to open and close seamlessly. Certain conditions like bruxism or bite misalignments can put excess pressure on this joint, increasing tension and causing pain.
Where BOTOX comes in is with its ability to relax the muscles. Well-placed injections can prevent the muscles around the TMJ from contracting, effectively relieving physical stress and managing pain.
Connecting TMJD And Migraine Headaches
When you have a TMJD (TMJ disorder), it’s not uncommon to experience chronic headaches or even migraines. The muscles and nerves in the face and head are all very closely connected. Tension in your TMJ, for example, can transfer down your neck and up through your head, causing a headache or migraine.
Once your facial muscles are relaxed, you might notice relief or complete elimination of your headaches!
BOTOX as Bruxism Treatment
Here’s another million-dollar word: bruxism, which is simply when a patient grinds or clenches their teeth. As mentioned earlier, bruxism can contribute to TMJ stress, which can in turn prompt more instances of bruxism!
BOTOX, however, can limit your muscle activity. With your muscles’ biting power restricted, less tension is transferred along your jaw when you bite or clench. This has been shown to reduce bite pressure in the lower jaw by up to 30% and decrease bruxism episodes. Ultimately, BOTOX has had better clinical results for bruxism than occlusal splints, drugs, or cognitive-behavioral therapy.
In Conclusion
Because of the way BOTOX can release tension in your facial muscles and skin, it can have several therapeutic benefits for conditions related to muscle contraction. If you’re looking for relief from a TMJD, headaches, or bruxism, BOTOX might just be the magical treatment you need – so consult with your dentist before writing it off as a frivolous cosmetic procedure!
About the Author
Dr. Admasu Gizachew (“Dr. G”) has been named a Top Dentist by both New Jersey and New York multiple years in a row. His mission is to make dental treatments more accessible and better able to help his patients. To pursue this goal, he keeps up with the latest dental technologies and methods, including using BOTOX injections as a therapeutic option. If you’re interested in relieving TMJ, migraine, or bruxism pain, contact Dr. G’s office at 718-568-0405.