How can Botox be used to relieve jaw pain? (Bruxism and Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction)
Do you often experience pain or stiffness in your jaw joint? Do you feel that you often catch yourself grinding your teeth?
Approximately 31% of the population experience some or all of these symptoms which are likely related to a group of conditions called temporomandibular disorders (TMD).1 A common example of these conditions is called ‘bruxism’, which is the scientific term for teeth grinding.
What is the evidence?
There is good scientific evidence to support the use of muscle relaxing injections for treatment of specifically musculature related TMDs. It’s important when seeking treatment to ensure you are thoroughly assessed by a medical or dental professional with knowledge of the joint anatomy and muscles of the head and neck.2 This is to exclude any other potential causes which could be non-musculature related, such as systemic conditions or the anatomy of the jaw joint.
How does it work?
Muscle relaxing injections can effectively manage symptoms of temporomandibular disorders by relaxing the overactive jaw muscles. They work by blocking nerve signals that cause muscle contractions, thereby reducing muscle tightness and associated pain. This is the same mechanism of action as utilised in wrinkle relating treatments.
What should I experience after treatment?
Most people after treatment report decreased pain in the jaw, face, neck and shoulders and improved jaw function when chewing, talking and yawning. It can also help to reduce teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night. Treatment time takes approximately 30 minutes.
If you have any questions related to this topic please feel free to Contact Us.
You can otherwise book this treatment directly via our Appointments Page with Dr. Alice Duke or Dr Hassan Abbas.
References
Valesan, L.F., Da-Cas, C.D. and Réus, J.C. (2021) Prevalence of temporomandibular joint disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Oral Investigations 25(2), 441-453.
Delcanho, R., Val, M., Guarda Nardini, L., & Manfredini, D. (2022). Botulinum Toxin for Treating Temporomandibular Disorders: What is the Evidence? Journal of oral & facial pain and headache, 36(1), 6–20. https://doi.org/10.11607/ofph.3023