Botox Can Help You With TMJ

Botox is a neurotoxin that most people are familiar with as a beauty treatment to decrease the appearance of facial wrinkles. The way Botox achieves its results in the beauty industry has also opened it up to being an effective treatment for TMJ disorder.
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, a condition that is often associated with pain and limited movement of the jaw.

People with TMJ Dysfunction can experience a range of uncomfortable and oftentimes painful symptoms, including:

  • Limited range of movement of the jaw
  • Headaches
  • Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
  • Pain around or in the ear
  • Pain while chewing

Popular treatments for TMJ disorder include anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants (Tricyclic), muscle relaxants, and, more recently, Botox.

Before you conduct a search for “Botox injections for TMJ near me,” it’s always a good idea to learn more about the treatment, including:

  • How does Botox for TMJ work?
  • Will insurance cover Botox for TMJ?
  • Botox for TMJ cost
  • Does Botox for TMJ change face shape?
  • Botox for TMJ pros and cons

How Does Botox for TMJ Work?

Botox puts facial muscles to sleep. As a beauty treatment, the relaxed muscles tend to smooth out wrinkles. However, with TMJ, Botox can partially relax the masseter muscle.

When administered by a licensed practitioner, Botox can significantly reduce many of the painful symptoms of TMJ. Results vary by patient, but they can last between three and five months.

Botox for TMJ Procedure

In general, a Botox treatment will include three injections: one each in the jaw muscle, temple, and forehead. More injections may be required, depending on your symptoms.

Treatment usually consists of at least three sessions conducted over the course of a few weeks.
Injections can induce pain that feels similar to a bug bite or pinprick. You can reduce the discomfort by numbing the area with numbing cream or a cold pack.

Many patients start to feel relief from TMJ within a couple of days, but the full effect of the treatment may not be felt for at least several days. However, you can return to your regular routine as soon as your appointment is complete.
It is important to follow all of your health care provider’s instructions after receiving a Botox treatment. Some providers will recommend you sit for a period of time after treatment, which allows the Botox injection to bind to the facial muscles.

You should also avoid massaging the injection sites. If you experience pain, then a cold pack will provide some relief.

You may also receive a recommendation not to lay flat for at least four hours after your injections. Doctors advise this to prevent any chance of the drug from migrating to other areas of your body.

Will Insurance Cover Botox for TMJ?

When seeking relief from TMJ symptoms, you may have concerns about the Botox for TMJ cost. The good news is that some insurance providers do cover the cost of Botox treatments for TMJ.

While Botox is FDA approved for cosmetic use, the FDA has not yet approved its use as a treatment for TMJ. For this reason, there are quite a few insurers who will not front the cost for treatment. Still, it’s always worth asking.

Treatment costs will vary between patients according to treatment needs. If insurance is not forthcoming, you can reasonably expect a Botox TMJ cost to be anywhere between $500 and $1500, and more in some cases.

Does Botox for TMJ Change Face Shape?

If you have ever wondered, “does Botox for TMJ change face shape,” there is a good reason for this effect.

Just like any other muscle in your body that can grow larger with work, the masseter muscle can bulk up with overuse, creating a square-shaped face and a more pronounced jawline.

When the masseter muscle is paralyzed and unable to move, you are unable to grind your teeth or clench your jaw. Your jaw has time to relax, rest, and heal.

When the masseter muscle is relaxed because of Botox, it can result in a slimmer face, more pronounced cheekbones, and a reduction in wrinkles’ appearance.

Still have questions about Botox for TMJ?

If you’re looking for “Botox for TMJ near me” in Tampa or New Port Richey – We’re here to help! Dr. Camille Medina is certified in providing effective Botox treatments, and she will help you determine whether Botox or a different treatment is the best option for you. (Visit us at our Tampa or New Port Richey locations!)

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