
More than ten million Americans experience discomfort along their jawline, accompanied by tension, headache, and inability to comfortably open and close their mouths. They experience common symptoms including clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when they chew, yawn, or even when they speak. These symptoms may be an indication of a condition commonly known as “TMJ.”
Dr. Fattahi can use BOTOX injections in the temporomandibular joint to effectively treat TMJ symptoms for some patients. When the tissues surrounding the TMJ are injected with BOTOX, the seized and tense muscles causing your discomfort can become relaxed and offer relief.
Receiving a BOTOX treatment is simple, relatively painless, and requires no downtime. Sometimes a topical anesthetic is used around the injection site–however, BOTOX needles are so small that many patients don’t need any kind of anesthetic. Dr. Fattahi will plan BOTOX injections sites that may include your forehead, jaw, and temples, and any other areas that could be cause for concern based on your case. After the procedure, you can continue about your day with no side effects. It is recommended to not lie down for several hours after treatment, or to rub the injection site; both of these things could lead to the BOTOX dispersing and spreading away from the desired location.
After treatment, it takes a couple of days to feel noticeable changes in your symptoms. Most patients notice improvement after about five days, or at least within a week. If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ, ask your hygienist or dentist about treatment options right away. With specialized training in the maxillofacial area, your dentist may be the number one best choice for seeking medical BOTOX treatments to relieve TMJ symptoms. Give us a call to learn more!