Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction affects 10 million Americans* but many don’t connect their headaches, the most common side effect of TMJ, with its disorder. Jaw pain, trouble chewing, and pain on the temple area are a few of the other symptoms of TMJ. Finding relief and caring for TMJ dysfunction starts with identifying the underlying cause. Dr. Stante is one of few dentists in the Indianapolis area that can offer a diagnosis and effective treatment plan, such as BOTOX therapy, to effectively treat your discomfort.
How does BOTOX treat TMJ?
Studies suggest that approximately 85% of TMJ and other facial pain disorders are muscle related. BOTOX affects muscles by decreasing the intensity of muscle contractions, allowing the muscles to still function, but to relax them just enough to prevent intense contractions, which can cause the pain along with tooth damage. Only the individual muscles injected with BOTOX will become relaxed, and using these injections as TMJ therapy will not impact any other parts of your body.
Benefits of BOTOX for TMJ
- Quick
- Effective
- Non-invasive, non-surgical
- Administered in dentist’s office, not in hospital
- Minimal pain
- Noticeable improvement within one to two days of the first treatment and maximum effects within 10-14 days
- Easy return to normal activities
- Safeguards dental health from excessive grinding and damaged gums
- Provides relief 24 hours a day, rather than just nighttime relief from a guard
How Dr. Stante Can Help
While patients benefit from TMJ dysfunction appliance therapy and mouthguards, adding BOTOX to your treatment plan can help reduce or eliminate the headaches and facial pain associated with TMJ. Dr. Stante has completed a hands-on Continuing Education and Training Course on TMJ and facial pain therapy utilizing the BOTOX procedure. The course was offered by the FDA approved American Academy of Facial Esthetics, an industry leader in the most current and up-to-date training for all healthcare professionals in this field. She is excited about offering a cutting-edge alternative for those suffering from mild to severe levels of facial pain, whether it’s from headaches, migraines, stress or TMJ dysfunction.
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort associated with TMJ dysfunction, BOTOX may be the answer you need. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Stante today to see if BOTOX is the right treatment for you!
Call Dr. Stante to help determine which therapy will most effectively treat your specific concerns.
Source: The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research