TMJ PAIN (Temporomandibular Joint Pain)

Although it is commonly associated with the beauty industry, Botox is also used for dozens of prescribed therapeutic treatments. Botulinum toxin is a naturally-occuring neuromodulator, used as an injectable muscle relaxer which can be used to help alleviate a wide range of medical conditions caused by muscle and joint pain.

Though there are many causes for a common headache, when the pain becomes chronic, healthcare professionals often explore whether the pain could be a result of tightness in the jaw. 

When we open and close our mouths we engage the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)- the joint which connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the skull. We frequently use this in daily life to eat and speak, therefore when we have pain in the jaw area, it can be challenging to function in daily life. It can also result in chronic headaches.

There are several possible causes for TMJ Disorder including trauma to the jaw (ie. accident, sport injury, dental work), erosion of the jaw, structure of the jaw at birth, and arthritis. Often, it is caused by habitual clenching of the jaw or grinding of the teeth, which may go unnoticed until the pain becomes a problem. Clenching, whether awake or asleep, is usually because of prolonged stress, poor diet, or lack of sleep.

Night guards, massage therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and hot compresses are all easy ways recommended to help with minor TMJ pain and headaches. At Skinfidelity, we offer Botox and Dysport treatments, which are more effective and provide a longer lasting solution. It has been proven to greatly improve a person's quality of life.

By injecting Botox into the muscles around the TMJ, it blocks the nerve signals which cause uncontrollable movements which cause the pain, essentially by relaxing the muscles. We inject small does of Botoxillum into the temporalis, frontal and masseter muscles that together can cause jaw pain and headaches. Of course, we only administer a minimal amount which can effectively soothe pain without drastically affecting the natural movement of the jaw.

Treatments are non-surgical, minimally invasive, take a few seconds and patients can resume most normal activities immediately. Most patients experience noticeable relief from TMJ pain within a day or two of the procedure, and the effects can last up to five months. Not only does the Botox work to alleviate pain, but patients will notice a change in their facial structure from relief of the TMJ symptoms, such as a slimmer jawline.