Botox for TMJ Disorder: How Does It Work?
You’ve probably heard of Botox® for cosmetic purposes, helping you look younger.
But have you heard of therapeutic Botox for facial pain, headaches, and even temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders?
That’s right!
Botox for TMJ disorder may relieve common symptoms, such as teeth clenching and headaches.
How does Botox work?
Botox reduces the activity of facial muscles.
Typically, it’s used for cosmetic purposes, minimizes the appearance of:
- Wrinkles
- Aging lines around the eyes or forehead
- Frown lines
Sometimes, Botox is also combined with dermal fillers to restore a youthful glow.
But:
Botox can also be used for therapeutic purposes.
Since its primary function is to relax facial muscles, it can help relieve pain from tight jaws and other facial muscles that cause tension and headaches.
In addition:
Botox is currently being used to treat over 20 different medical treatments.
Does Botox work for TMJ disorders (TMD)?
If you didn’t know Botox could be used for both cosmetic and medically therapeutic treatment – you’re not alone!
Before we go into how Botox works for TMJ disorders, let’s discuss what TMJ is.
Your temporomandibular joint acts as a hinge for your mouth, letting you eat and talk freely.
But:
When you have TMJ disorder, you may experience:
- Sore cheeks and jaw
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Tension headaches
- And more
Remember:
Botox relaxes muscles.
In patients suffering from TMJ disorder symptoms, Botox helps relax tense jaw muscles and alleviate pain.
It’s typically recommended as a complementary treatment to other TMJ disorder therapy, but Botox may be all you need for certain symptoms!
In addition:
Botox for TMJ disorder symptoms can last up to 3 months.
Our patient at West Chester Dental Arts, Maria from Media, PA, didn’t know therapeutic Botox could treat her morning headaches and teeth clenching.
We injected Botox into her chewing muscles and the process took only a few minutes to complete.
She experienced pain relief within 10 days!
Does Botox for TMJ disorder change face shape?
Botox for TMJ disorder may change your face shape – in a positive way, of course!
When your jaw muscles are tensed and overworked, it may cause your face to look wider.
Botox helps to lessen the appearance of your jaw muscles and simultaneously alleviate pain from clenching!
In turn, it slims your face and restores youthfulness.
Many would consider this a cosmetic bonus on top of therapeutic relief.
Is Botox for TMJ disorder covered by insurance?
Typically, Botox for cosmetic use is not covered by insurance.
However:
It may be covered in some cases, especially in using Botox to treat chronic medical conditions.
Check with your insurance company to confirm.
How much is the treatment?
The cost of Botox varies from patient to patient.
Factors include:
- How many units of Botox you need
- Cost per unit
- Provider’s time
- Supplies needed (Including gloves, needles, etc.)
- Geographic location
Let’s break down the two most significant factors of Botox treatment charges.
Botox cost per unit
A unit is a drop of Botox at the injection site.
For example, if you need a procedure in your forehead area for horizontal lines, you may need anywhere between 15 to 25 units of Botox.
However:
If you’re located in or around West Chester, PA, we’re ecstatic to let you in on a little secret!
Schedule a consultation with us now to learn more.
Geographic location
Location plays a significant role in how much your Botox treatment will cost.
73% of Botox… This text opens a new tab to the AEdit website… procedures take place along the coasts, and cosmetic costs are higher in those areas.
Can a dentist administer Botox?
Yes, a dentist is more than qualified to administer Botox.
In fact:
Dentists specialize in studying the muscles and facial structures extensively, even more than other medical doctors.
With this knowledge and training:
They’re able to administer painless Botox injections for patients daily.
Most patients say Botox feels like a pinch if anything!
Where can I get Botox for TMJ disorder near me?
West Chester Dental Arts dental office is proud to offer Botox treatments for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.
Our talented dentists maintain the highest levels of accreditation and ongoing education to ensure your treatments are effective and stress-free. Dr. Eric Fort and Dr. Jae Woo Kim are both certified Association Members with the American Academy of Facial Esthetics.… This text opens a new tab to the American Academy of Facial Esthetics website…
Ready to relieve TMD symptoms?
Or:
- Call us at 610-696-3371
- Email us at main@wcdentalarts.com
We’re conveniently located in West Chester, PA… This text opens a new tab to the Google Maps website…, and happily welcome patients from all over, including the neighboring communities of Chester County.
