Do you suffer from frequent headaches and jaw pain? It is possible that you have TMJ disorder (TMD), a condition that afflicts the joint right in front of your ears, which connects the lower jaw to the rest of your skull. When it is not working correctly, it can cause tension and pain in the surrounding tissues. In fact, it is a common headache trigger. If you have this issue, it may be worth your time to talk to your dentist about BOTOX injections. How can BOTOX get rid of headaches caused by TMD? This blog post explains.
How Does BOTOX Work?
BOTOX is the brand name for a product that contains a diluted form of botulinum toxin. It is famous for its anti-aging benefits because it can greatly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, it has other benefits as well.
BOTOX works by temporarily paralyzing certain muscles. When it is strategically injected into the muscles around the TMJ, it helps them to relax. In turn, this can greatly reduce tension headaches associated with TMD. It can also help other symptoms of TMD as well, such as jaw pain and difficulty chewing. One study even found that among individuals who received BOTOX for their TMD, 90% saw an improvement in their symptoms!
Is BOTOX a Permanent Solution?
BOTOX can relax overworked facial muscles and provide significant pain relief, but it is not usually a permanent solution for TMD headaches and other symptoms. Its results typically last for 3 – 6 months before additional injections may be called for.
BOTOX cannot provide permanent relief because it does not address the root cause of TMD, which might be related to a misaligned bite, dental injuries, a stressful lifestyle, or other causes.
A qualified TMD dentist can assess your situation and may recommend that you receive BOTOX along with other treatments so you can experience long-lasting results.
What to Expect with BOTOX for TMD
If you decide to receive BOTOX, you can expect an easy treatment experience. You may feel a slight pinch as the solution is carefully injected into your facial muscles, but that should be the extent of your discomfort. No downtime is required after BOTOX injections. Most patients start to notice the benefits of their treatment within a week of their appointment.
BOTOX may help you find powerful relief from TMJ-related headaches! Talk to a qualified dentist to learn more about this remarkable treatment.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Melody Stampe is a highly experienced dentist who is a member of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain, the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and other prestigious organizations. BOTOX injections are one of the many treatments she offers in our Richardson, TX, office. If you would like to learn more about how she and our team may be able to serve you, get in touch with us at 972-907-1718.