You most likely recognize the name “BOTOX” as a temporary cosmetic filler to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. However, the positive effects of BOTOX® are more than skin deep; while reducing wrinkles is just one application of the drug, BOTOX® can also help treat muscular conditions affecting the face – specifically TMJ disorders (or TMD). For Clinton, NJ patients who suffer from the painful symptoms of TMD, BOTOX® may just be the injectable relief you’ve been searching for.
If you suffer from TMD, and are looking for non-surgical, minimally invasive relief, BOTOX® treatment from Quality Dentistry at Walnut Pond could be for you. TMJ pain is often difficult to treat and eliminate; though BOTOX® treatment for TMJ pain is currently considered experimental, patient experience is proving that it could be very effective. For more information, call our practice to schedule an appointment with Dr. Carson Ferris-Zeolla or Dr. Victoria Uryniak.
How BOTOX® Can Help Relieve TMD Symptoms
Your temporomandibular joints are constantly used throughout the day as your chew, speak, and swallow. However, for patients who suffer from night-time teeth grinding and clenching, the TMJ can bear excessive amounts of pressure, leading to sore facial muscles and stiff joints. This often translates to tension-style headaches, jaw pain, neck stiffness or pain, and additional frustrating — or even debilitating — symptoms.
After preliminary research, more and more evidence is showing that BOTOX® can effectively relieve the jaw tension that sparks many TMD symptoms. BOTOX® is best used in patients who suffer TMJ pain caused by overworked, fatigued facial muscles. This is because BOTOX® can inhibit facial muscles from exerting high amounts of pressure. As the muscles no longer press upon the TMJ they actually shrink in size; inflammation and stiffness can quickly fade, also preventing future discomfort.
What to Expect During Treatment
Dr. Carson Ferris-Zeolla or Dr. Victoria Uryniak are uniquely qualified to provide BOTOX® injections, since dentists have extensive background in facial anatomy. You can receive safe, precise treatment for TMD from your general dentist, rather than visiting a specialist.
BOTOX® treatment in our Clinton, NJ practice only lasts 10 to 30 minutes. Dr. Carson Ferris-Zeolla or Dr. Victoria Uryniak will place small injections in specific areas around the jaw to target the overworked muscles. Some patients may face minor discomfort from the injections. However, numbing creams or mild sedatives can be offered for patients nervous or fearful of the procedure.
Patients can expect symptoms to improve almost immediately. Any temporary, mild bruising or irritation at the injection sites is normal and should go away in a few days.
Safety and Long-Term Use
The results of BOTOX® treatment will last about five months, on average, so regular treatment is recommended to prevent symptoms from reoccurring. Since BOTOX® treatment is relatively non-invasive the risks surrounding this treatment are fairly small. However, some patients could react negatively to the BOTOX® injections. Headaches, flu-like symptoms, nausea, muscle weakness, or pain could occur; however, these usually dissipate within the first week following treatments.
As is best practice with BOTOX® treatment, Dr. Carson Ferris-Zeolla or Dr. Victoria Uryniak treat patients with lower doses of BOTOX® to prevent patients from developing resistance to the BOTOX® medication and a decrease in its ability to treat TMJ pain. It should be noted that pregnant or breastfeeding mothers should hold off on BOTOX® treatment until after they give birth or complete lactation.
BOTOX® for TMJ Pain Relief in Clinton, NJ
If you are interested in learning more about BOTOX® treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Carson Ferris-Zeolla or Dr. Victoria Uryniak today. Call us at 908-200-7007.