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BOTOX Treatment for TMJ Disorder in San Francisco

You are probably aware that BOTOX is used as an injection procedure to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines that show the inconvenient effects of aging. But BOTOX is also an alternative treatment option for more than just frown lines. It has therapeutic applications that can provide pain relief for many patients suffering from Temporomandibular Joint disorders.

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Benefits of BOTOX for TMJ Disorder

When BOTOX is injected into the temporalis and masseter muscles, it limits muscle function to relieve the pain associated with TMJ disorders. BOTOX therapy can alleviate the following symptoms:

Jaw pain or tenderness that may be achy or sharp

Facial pain and swelling of the jaw muscles

Headaches and toothaches

Lock jaw - a limited ability to open the mouth fully

Neck and shoulder pain

Once the pain from TMJ disorder is under control, it will be easier to address outside stressors that increase symptoms. The relief provided by therapy may be temporary, but addressing the underlying causes that increase symptoms will give long-term relief. 

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint connecting your jaw to your skull. It’s common for this joint to become swollen or inflamed if it becomes stressed. This can lead to painful symptoms for the patient. The most common cause of TMJ disorders is grinding or clenching teeth.

How Does BOTOX Treatment Work?

BOTOX is derived from botulinum toxin type A, a natural neurotoxin that blocks chemical signals in your muscles. When targeted at particular injection sites in the facial muscles, this prevents these selected muscles from receiving the message to move. Only trained medical professionals can administer the injection of Botox units.

BOTOX Cosmetic Treatment 

Facial lines and wrinkles occur when muscle movements cause the skin to fold together repeatedly in the same spot. Temporary muscle weakness from the procedure prevents the underlying movement, so this reduces the appearance of facial wrinkles to preserve a youthful appearance.

BOTOX Injections as Therapy for Pain Relief

When the muscles are prevented from moving following treatment, it releases the tension caused by contracting the muscles. This relieves the tension and pain while patients locate and treat the underlying cause of their disorder.

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Tips to Stop Grinding Teeth

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, typically occurs while sleeping and is linked to stress or anxiety. Our team at Sunset Dentistry can help determine causes and help you find relief. A few quick tips to avoid grinding teeth include:

Seek treatment

We are here to help. We can help you determine the underlying issues causing you to grind your teeth. This can sometimes be a symptom of a sleep-related issue, so you may also want to consult your primary care physician, too.

Meditate

Meditation is a great way to help reduce stress and anxiety, which may be causing bruxism. Several great mobile apps offer daily courses.

Exercise

One of the great benefits of exercise is the stress relief provided when our body releases endorphins during physical activity. These endorphins can shift your mood and encourage relaxation and a restful night's sleep.

Get Botox Treatment for TMJ in San Francisco at Sunset Dentistry

You don’t have to live with the symptoms of TMJ disorders. Dr. Morghem and her team are proud to support our Bay Area patients with treatment plans to relieve symptoms and find the underlying causes of pain associated with TMJ. To schedule an appointment and get the relief you deserve, call us at (415) 681-7001.