Botox® is becoming a very popular way for patients to treat TMJ. This dental issue is caused by the muscle dysfunction that connects your jawbone to your skull. It is supposed to act as a hinge, but it can often become inflamed and irritated.
TMJ causes such discomfort and pain. This can make the simple act of chewing feel unpleasant. Some patients experience clicking of their jaw while eating or moving it for any reason, and for some, their jaw can lock up. This is a painful but treatable condition. A dentist can evaluate the problem and decide which course of action to take for your specific situation.
This treatment method for TMJ allows the muscles in pain to disengage and reduce the spasms and tension caused by the dysfunction. The injection relieves tension which can lessen headaches and stop teeth grinding, and many patients begin to experience the full range of motion in their jawbone after the procedure.
As with any medical procedure, there may be side effects. The injection can cause headaches and nausea. Many patients do report temporary eyelid drooping, and some have respiratory illnesses. The symptoms will subside after some time but consult your dentist if they become worse or do not ease over time.
Your dentist will explain the process during your procedure and let you know what to expect during and after the injection is complete. The Botox injection usually takes anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to be finished. The effects of your treatment will be noticed almost immediately, and after any swelling goes down, you will notice a difference in how your jaw functions. Hopefully, your pain will be decreased, and you can get back to normal for some time.
Your injection results should last between three and four months. During that time, let your dentist know if you are experiencing any different feelings or if the treatment did not work. In most cases, you should be satisfied and happy with your decision to get this treatment.
There are other ways your dentist may want to treat your TMJ. They may suggest surgery if they feel the dysfunction is progressed too far. They could also prescribe medication or physical therapy to help with the tension and strain on your jawbone.
It is always important to ask questions. As a patient, you are the only one who lives in your body. Only you can relay your thoughts and feelings most accurately. Your dentist is there to help you with your discomfort. If you don’t ask questions, they will never be answered. What you may think is something minor, a dentist may have a quick solution, or they may look further and find a serious issue that needs treatment right away.
Stay in contact with your dentist, which will ensure a lifetime of good oral health.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mytotaldentistry.com or call McCarthy Dentistry at (740) 546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.
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