Botox is an injectable solution that temporarily paralyzes the facial muscles that cause wrinkles. It is generally used to treat frown lines between the eyebrows, crow’s feet around the eyes, and forehead creases. Botox can also treat TMJ disorders when injected into the jaw muscles to relax and relieve tension that causes teeth grinding or clenching. For the best care possible, contact Allegra Dental Center: Nana Dickson, DDS, and Morgan Floyd, DMD.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a purified protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This ingredient treats facial lines and wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing the muscles in the treatment area. The muscles cannot contract, which causes the skin to smooth out.
In addition to treating wrinkles, Botox can also treat temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) symptoms. This condition causes jaw pain, headaches, and a clicking or popping sound when chewing. It can also affect the neck, shoulder, back, and arms. Botox can relieve these symptoms by relaxing the jaw muscles, which helps the patient open their mouth wider more easily. It also decreases the pain associated with TMD.
What Is TMD?
Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, is a common oral health condition affecting the jaw joints. The temporomandibular joint is on either side of the face in front of the ears and is necessary for chewing and talking.
When the TMJ becomes inflamed, it can cause significant discomfort and pain for the patient. Patients often report soreness in the ears, tenderness in the mouth, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth. If the condition is left untreated, it can lead to severe headaches and even lockjaw. It can also lead to more serious problems, such as neck pain, tinnitus, poor posture, etc.
How Does Botox Address TMD?
When injected into facial muscles, Botox temporarily reduces muscle contractions and relieves the painful symptoms associated with TMJ disorders. When the muscles and joints in the jaw are relaxed, less force is placed on them, and the pain and discomfort experienced when chewing or talking can be reduced.
In addition to reducing discomfort, Botox also has cosmetic benefits. When injected into the skin around and between the eyes, it can smooth crow’s feet and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It can also elevate certain facial features for a clean, balanced look.
If you suffer from any TMJ disorder symptoms or want to improve your skin's quality, visit Allegra Dental Center: Nana Dickson, DDS, and Morgan Floyd, DMD, at 3040 Williams Dr #201, Fairfax, VA 22031, or call (571) 419-6897 for more information.
