Botox – Westminster, CO
Achieving Jaw Pain Relief
When you think about the use of Botox, your first thought might immediately include facial wrinkles and fine lines. But did you know it can be equally as beneficial in other areas of your facial structure? When suffering from chronic jaw pain, the effects can be debilitating. Impacting your head, neck, and jaw, you may feel as if there is no hope in sight. Fortunately, our team at J.B. Dental can use Botox in Westminster to relieve the pain and improve oral function over time. If you’re interested in learning more, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
What is Botox?
Botox is a bacterium that is a diluted form of botulinum toxin. Approved by the FDA, it can be used to improve facial aesthetics (i.e., wrinkles, fine lines), but it can also be a pivotal part of treatment for individuals dealing with chronic jaw pain.
Once injected into the appropriate area(s), the solution temporarily freezes the muscles, effectively minimizing the amount of pressure placed on inflamed jaw joints, which are commonly referred to as temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Keep in mind that it can take 14 days after the treatment to experience the full benefits of Botox.
Although Botox is not a permanent solution (results can last a few months), it can be used in combination with other treatment options such as an occlusal splint. Patients who undergo Botox for TMJ must be aware of the necessity to maintain follow-up appointments with their cosmetic dentist in Westminster over time.
Who is a Good Candidate for Botox?
Individuals who suffer from the following may be good candidates for Botox:
- Severe headaches
- Intense jaw pain
- Persistent shoulder pain
- Teeth grinding/clenching (bruxism)
- Lockjaw or a jaw that pops when opening and closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or eating because of an ill-functioning jaw
Of course, a thorough evaluation must be completed by Dr. Bancroft before treatment can begin. It is necessary that she determine if you are in good general health as well as fully understand the process of receiving Botox. Realistic expectations should be stressed. Keep in mind that it can take up to 14 days to experience relief.
The Benefits of Botox
When it comes to choosing Botox to treat your TMJ/TMD, you’ll find there are many unique benefits that make it a safe and viable option for treatment, such as:
- Botox can improve your facial symmetry, especially if your TMJ has caused a change in your facial shape. Over time, the solution can help to shrink the muscles in the injected areas.
- It is a minimally invasive procedure that takes little time to complete, which is helpful for busy adults and professionals.
- The facial muscles can begin to heal and rest, alleviating the discomfort caused by inflamed jaw joints.
- Headaches can begin to dissipate because of the lack of teeth grinding.
- Minimal or no shoulder and neck pain.
- Reduced likelihood of lockjaw.
BOTOX FAQs
Is Botox treatment for TMJ safe?
Yes, when used to treat TMJ, Botox is a safe method of treatment when administered by a licensed and trusted professional. You can expect that when seeing Dr. Bancroft for Botox, she will make sure you are suitable to receive this unique service by asking questions about your overall health and the type of medications you are taking.
Her advanced training and expertise ensure that the right amount is administered and that the appropriate locations for these injections are used for optimal effectiveness.
What should you expect after receiving Botox in your jaw muscles?
It is not uncommon to experience minor swelling and bruising at the injection site initially; however, this will subside within a few days. You’ll also begin to notice a significant difference in the kind of relief you experience, as well as an improvement in the kind of symptoms you experience. Each patient is different, which is why it’s important that you maintain regular follow-up appointments with your cosmetic dentist in Westminster when receiving Botox for TMJ.
How many Botox injections will I need?
Most patients require multiple sessions to achieve longer-lasting results. Also, it’s commonly used in combination with other TMJ treatments, like an occlusal splint. Botox in Westminster can be a great addition to any TMJ treatment plan, as it temporarily relaxes the muscles that surround your jaw joints. Although you may prefer just one round of injections, it is unlikely to produce the kind of effects you need, which is why you can expect us to space out your sessions three months apart – the typical time for results to last.
How long should I expect it to take for Botox to take effect?
You should not expect immediate results when receiving Botox for TMJ. Instead, it may take a few days after treatment, or up to two weeks, to start noticing an improvement in your symptoms and oral motion.
When injecting botulinum toxin into the muscles near your jaw joints, it requires ample time for the solution to take effect. This keeps the muscles from contracting and causing additional pressure on the jaw joints.