BOTOX for TMJ Treatment New Baltimore
Fast & Powerful Jaw Pain Relief
BOTOX is famous for being able to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but did you know that it has a range of medical applications as well? In fact, it is a popular form of TMJ treatment. If you have been struggling with persistent jaw pain and related symptoms, our New Baltimore team can assess your case and determine whether BOTOX injections might be able to help.
What Is BOTOX?
BOTOX is the brand name of a diluted form of botulinum toxin. When it is injected into muscles, it limits their ability to move and forces them to relax. In cosmetic applications, this causes a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.
When BOTOX is used as a TMJ treatment, it forces the muscles around the jaws to relax. This lowers muscle tension throughout the face and can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms. The injection process is fast, and you may start to notice results within 5 – 10 days. The pain relief has the potential to last for months at a time.
Are You a Good Candidate for BOTOX for TMJ Treatment?
Almost anyone who is struggling with symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD) might be a candidate for BOTOX. Such symptoms include:
- Tenderness and pain in the jaw
- Limited jaw movement
- Popping and clicking in the jaw joint
- Teeth grinding and clenching
- Headaches and migraines
- Changes in bite
- Neck and shoulder pain
Our team will evaluate your case and determine whether BOTOX is likely to help you experience relief. Keep in mind that BOTOX is usually used as a complement to other TMJ treatments since it is more focused on symptom relief than on addressing the root cause of the condition.
How Can BOTOX Treat TMJ Disorder?
BOTOX is an effective treatment for TMD because it promotes muscle relaxation. When the muscles are no longer tense, it can improve function in the jaw joints and help nearby muscle groups to function properly.
Many people have had success with BOTOX as a TMJ treatment. For example, a 2012 study found that this approach significantly decreased the pain of mouth movements for three months after treatment. A separate study showed improvement in 90% of participants with TMJ symptoms.
Would you like to learn more about BOTOX as a TMJ treatment? Our New Baltimore team would be pleased to answer your questions. Contact our office today.
BOTOX® for TMJ Treatment FAQs
Is BOTOX® for TMJ disorder safe?
When it is administered by a properly trained professional, such as Dr. Nicole DeBellis at Great Lakes Dental Excellence, BOTOX is regarded as a safe and effective way to address TMJ disorder.
Severe adverse reactions to BOTOX are very rare. However, some side effects are common, and they can include things like:
- Bruising, redness, and soreness at the injection site
- Headaches
- Mild nausea
- Flu-like symptoms
- Temporary eyelid drooping
If you have any questions or concerns after your BOTOX treatment, do not hesitate to reach out to our team. We will do all we can to help you understand what is happening and advise you on your next steps.
How long does it take for BOTOX® to work for TMJ disorder?
Many patients start to notice a reduction in their TMD symptoms within just a few days of their injections. Keep in mind, though, that some individuals need multiple injections spread out over a few weeks. After any soreness from the injections wears off, you might find that your facial muscles feel more relaxed and your pain levels are greatly reduced.
The results of BOTOX for TMD often last for months at a time, and longer-term relief may be possible when BOTOX is combined with other therapies.
Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?
Medical and dental insurance plans vary greatly in their BOTOX coverage. Since TMJ treatment is an off-label use for BOTOX, most insurance plans do not automatically cover it. However, if medical necessity is established, some coverage might be available.
If your insurance will not cover your treatment, our team can help you explore other options for reducing the financial strain of your injections. For example, we accept low-interest financing through CareCredit and Sunbit. We can walk you through the application process.
Is TMJ treatment expensive?
BOTOX is priced per unit, and most patients require anywhere from 20 to 60 units or more (sometimes up to 100 units) for TMJ treatment. When you attend a consultation, we can crunch some numbers and provide you with an estimate that is tailored to your unique situation.
Treating TMJ disorder with BOTOX can cost several hundred dollars or more. However, most patients agree that the pain relief is worth it! Treatment may also help you save money over time; by reducing teeth grinding and managing pain, you may spend less overall on dental work and various short-term pain relief methods.