Botox Injections for Teeth Grinding & TMJ Pain
Botox is not just for reducing wrinkles. It is one of the best treatments for TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain due to teeth grinding or tension in the TMJ joint. Teeth grinding not only wears on the teeth, but it can also cause TMJ pain. When injected by an experienced physician, botox relieves pain and jaw tension due to teeth grinding. Often, people do not recognize they grind their teeth but feel jaw pain, especially jaw pain and headaches in the morning upon awakening or after chewing. This is because they grind their teeth during sleeping hours or chew with too much force. Botox will help with lockjaw, migraines, and disability due to jaw pain. Botox treatment can eliminate headaches resulting from teeth grinding. Dr. Payman has injected thousands of patients with botox and has over 10 years of experience injecting botox. Dr. Payman specializes in botox injections for teeth grinding and jaw pain, as well as TMJ joint pain.
What is the TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that is used during swallowing, eating, speaking, and other activities involving the mouth. Teeth grinding can overwork the joint and cause severe headaches and disability. Tmj disorder is a term used to describe the pain associated with the TMJ joint.
How do Botox Injections Help for Teeth Grinding and TMJ Pain?
Botox eliminates jaw tension by relaxing the muscle which clenches the jaws. These muscles can spasm or tense up, causing headaches and pain. Botox injections can take anywhere from 15-30 minutes, but are very minimally invasive, and more affordable, compared to jaw surgery and other treatments. Botox can relieve the jaw pain and teeth grinding in as early as 1 day to 7 days after treatment. The results can last up to 6 months or longer in some patients. By reducing teeth grinding, teeth remain healthy and the TMJ joint is protected from wear and tear, causing arthritis.
What are the Side Effects of Botox Injections for TMJ Pain and Teeth Grinding?
The side effects of this procedure are minor. Some patients experience minor bruising or redness at the site of injection.