Living with debilitating jaw pain can feel like a hopeless situation. The inability to move your mouth properly, eat certain foods, and even talk can take its toll the longer you go without treatment. Fortunately, there is no need to put off seeing a trusted dentist who provides safe and effective solutions for TMJ dysfunction. Offering many unique solutions, such as Botox, they can finally help you out of pain.
How TMJ Dysfunction Develops
Botox is commonly used on patients who want to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, but many individuals do not know that it can also be used to minimize pain occurring in the temporomandibular joints (TMJs).
When these areas, which are located on either side of the head, at the base of the skull, become inflamed or damaged, the first clear indicator of a problem is pain. Many patients struggle with the inability to open and close their mouth as well as yawn or even speak.
Treating this problem often requires the help of a skilled professional who understands how the TMJs work and ways to improve their overall function as well as reduce continual discomfort. While there are many methods available (i.e., occlusal splints, equilibration, TENS machine, etc.), some dentists are offering Botox as a service to consider.
How Botox Works to Treat TMJ Dysfunction
As an injectable solution that is minimally invasive, Botox (also known as botulinum toxin) can temporarily freeze and relax the muscles surrounding your jaw joints. Not only does this alleviate pain throughout the mouth but also the head, reducing the number of headaches you might have because of your TMJ dysfunction.
As the solution disperses, it minimizes the joints’ ability to apply additional pressure, especially if you are prone to grinding and clenching your teeth. This can be a life-changing form of treatment if you struggle daily with headaches and restricted oral function. With one or more injections, you will experience a noticeable improvement in a matter of days.
It is important to remember, though, that Botox helps alleviate pain, but it does not address the underlying cause of TMJ. This will require further examination and treatment by your dentist with the possibility of receiving an occlusal adjustment or splint to provide long-term relief.
No matter how your dentist proposes to treat your TMJ dysfunction, incorporating Botox can be a great way to experience temporary relief from pain. As you combine it with one of the other many solutions available, you’ll begin to enjoy life like never before.
About the Dentist
Dr. Robert Fromuth is a trusted dentist in Manchester who earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2013. He provides safe and effective TMJ treatment to those experiencing excessive jaw pain. Using Botox as one of the many methods of care, he helps individuals find relief and enjoy life without daily discomfort and reduced oral function. If you are ready to do something about your TMJ, contact us via our website or by calling (603) 644-3368.