Botox

How does Botox work?

Botox is a medication derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The bacterium produces a specific toxin. When injected in precise, safe, and minor doses to certain muscles in diluted amounts, the toxin relaxes the muscles and blocks signaling from your nerves to your muscles.  It also calms the Trigeminal Nerve causing the pain

How does Botox treat TMJ? 

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition affecting your jaw-hinge joint connecting your jawbone to your skull. TMJ disorder refers to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility in your jaw joint and in the muscles controlling your jaw movement. TMJ is often caused or worsened by muscle tension and tightness in the surrounding area.

With Botox, the temporary paralysis of muscle activity is especially beneficial for treating TMJ and relieving muscle tension, facial pain, headaches, and more. 

The toxin can soothe and relax tense muscles from stress or other causes. Botox can relieve your headache and any pain and soreness in your jaw hinge joint. Botox also works to minimize lockjaw.

Botox is a quick in-office treatment and takes less than half an hour. Dr. Pehling injects Botox with a fine needle. There might be some tolerable and mild discomfort, but most people don’t report any discomfort.

Who is a good candidate for Botox?

Most adults are good candidates for Botox treatments. During your personal consultation, Dr. Pehling can answer your questions and give you detailed information, so you know what to expect.

If you’re breastfeeding, pregnant, or if you have a neurological disease, you’re not a good candidate for Botox.

What can I expect following my Botox treatment?

Following your Botox treatment, there’s no downtime and you can return to your day immediately. Most people don’t report any symptoms.

Make sure you don’t rub or otherwise irritate the treated area for about 12 hours after treatment.

It can take a few days for you to notice the full benefits and pain relief from Botox, though you might experience some relief right away.

Your muscle function returns over time and your pain and soreness might also return. Additional Botox treatments can help you to manage your pain and continue your relief. Dr. Pehling can also work with you to treat any underlying inflammation that could be worsening your condition. 

Uncover how Botox can improve your quality of life and diminish your TMJ pain by calling the TMJ Orofacial Disorders Center or book online today.