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TMJ Botox
Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the temporal bones on each side of the skull to the mandible, or lower jawbone. These complex, hinge-like joints allow the mouth to open and close, move back and forth, and slide from side to side. Muscle, bone, and cartilage work together for easy and comfortable facial movement so we can speak, eat, swallow, yawn, and smile.
When the joint doesn’t function as smoothly as it should, the limited movement and discomfort which result could be caused by Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD.
Causes and Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder can develop due to arthritis, bruxism (tooth grinding), genetics, an injury or infection near the jaw, a misaligned bite, or a combination of factors. Sometimes the cause is unclear. TMD could be indicated if you suffer from any of these symptoms:
- Painful chewing
- Persistent pain and discomfort around the TMJ or in the face or neck
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
- Changes in bite alignment
- Muscle spasms near the jaw
- Clicking, popping, or grating noises when the jaw moves
- Jaws that are limited in movement or lock open or shut
If you suspect you might have TMD, your dentist or doctor will conduct a careful examination of your temporomandibular joints, their range of movement, and your head and neck. When needed, imaging studies can be used for further examination of the joint.
TMJ/TMD Treatments
Often, conservative treatment is effective in treating TMD. Your dentist or doctor will tailor treatment to the cause and symptoms of your TMD:
- Use of over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, and moist heat compresses
- Behavior modification for habits which can cause jaw pain (gum chewing, jaw clenching, nail biting, poor posture)
- Techniques for relaxation and stress relief
- Muscle relaxants, corticosteroids, or anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- A custom-fitted mouth guard, bite plate, or bite splint to protect teeth and jaw from the pressures of tooth grinding
- Dental treatment to improve minor bite misalignment
- Orthodontic treatment to treat more serious bite misalignment
- Botox treatment
Botox for TMJ/TMD
Botox has also emerged as a popular and effective treatment for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, offering patients a non-surgical option to manage pain and discomfort. Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, has been a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions and concerns for more than 30 years. Botox is a neurotoxin created by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum and can be used to reduce the strength of targeted muscle tissues. It was originally approved by the FDA in 1989 to treat strabismus, a condition in which the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at something. In following years its use expanded to treat other conditions cause by muscle contraction.
Botox injections work by temporarily relaxing the muscles around the jaw and face, which can reduce the intensity of muscle spasms, alleviate pain, and improve the range of motion. This non-invasive procedure provides relief for many patients who experience chronic discomfort from TMJ, without the need for long-term medication or invasive surgery.
In addition to pain relief, Botox can help prevent the harmful side effects of teeth grinding or clenching, both of which are common in people with TMJ. By relaxing the masseter muscles, Botox can reduce the force exerted on the teeth, potentially minimizing the risk of tooth wear, fractures, and other dental complications. The procedure is quick, typically requiring only a few minutes, and results can last for several months.
Surgical Treatment
If necessary, surgical procedures can provide more extensive examinations and treatment. These include:
Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure performed under anesthesia, which uses a thin tube with a video lens and light inserted through a small incision in front of the ear. This technology allows the surgeon to get a close look at the joint and the area surrounding it. Arthroscopic surgery can repair some types of TMJ damage.
Arthroplasty: Surgery performed under anesthesia, can repair, replace, or reposition damaged parts of the joint. Arthroplasty can be used to remove bony growths, repair or replace the articular disc that cushions your joint, and access areas that an arthroscopy can’t.
Jaw pain isn’t always due to TMD, and many cases of TMD are temporary. But frequent discomfort, limited movement, or any other persistent symptoms are a good reason to see your dentist or doctor for a thorough examination and diagnosis. Prompt treatment will help prevent further damage to the joint and make facial and jaw movement comfortable once again.

8112 Isabella Lane, Suite 101
Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 778-0810
8112 Isabella Lane, Suite 101
Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 778-0810