How many of us want to look good for our age?

No longer is cosmetic Botox® only for those in Hollywood, or associated with a frozen face. Botox® is a great alternative to costly and time consuming facial creams that promise results.

Botox® works as a resulting absence or reduction of muscle contraction leaves the skin smoother and lends a more relaxed appearance to the patient’s facial features.

Here are several of the major benefits Botox® offers TMJ sufferers:

Uses of BOTOX® Cosmetically

The signs of aging that respond best to BOTOX® injections are those lines and wrinkles caused by the repeated contractions of muscles used during facial expressions, especially those activated when we are frowning or squinting. Therefore, BOTOX® is used most commonly for reduction of the appearance of frown lines between the brows, forehead furrows, and lines at the outer edge of the eye, commonly referred to as “crow’s feet”.

BOTOX® can also be used for lines and wrinkles of the lower face, and even to “open” the eyes and give an instant brown lift.

Post-Op

Most patients can immediately resume normal activities, although there may be some unsightly swelling, bleeding, bruising or redness at the injection site, which usually lasts only a few hours, but can persist as long as 24-48 hours in highly sensitive patients.

Contact our office today for a consultation, why wait for the wrinkle to happen!

  • Elimination of headaches caused by nighttime grinding.
  • Minimization of lockjaw
  • Reduced discomfort when using the jaw.
  • Reduced shoulder and neck pain.
  • Substantially reduced jaw tension.

How does Botox® work?

The temporomandibular joint is located on both sides of the head where the skull adjoins the jawbone. This joint is constantly being used for a variety of daily activities, such as chewing, biting, speaking, and swallowing. The most prominent causes of TMJ are jaw displacement and stress-related involuntary jaw movements. Botox® expediently alleviates temporomandibular tension by relaxing the jaw muscles, thus preventing unconscious jaw movement and ending grinding-related headaches.

One of the major advantages of Botox® is that normal functions such as speaking, swallowing, and biting are left unaffected. The only major change is the reduction in pain and discomfort. In addition, controlling TMJ can also prevent serious dental problems from occurring later. TMJ, if left untreated, can contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and the loosening of teeth.

What’s involved when getting Botox® injections?

Prior to administering Botox® injections, the dentist needs to check the patient’s suitability for treatment. When used in conjunction with certain medications and substances, Botox® may not produce the desired results. It is exceptionally important therefore, to be honest about prior medical history. Botox® is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.

The Botox® injections take 10-20 minutes to administer, depending on the amount required. Because it is non-surgical, the Botox® procedure will be performed at the dental office. Driving ability will not be impaired by the treatment, so there is no need for a designated driver. The injections are no more painful than a bug bite or pinprick, but nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can be used to reduce anxiety if necessary.

Normal activity can be resumed immediately after the Botox® treatment, but strenuous activity should be avoided for 24 hours after treatment. It may take several days to feel the full benefits of the treatment, but Botox® will continue to work for up to 3 months.

If you have any questions or concerns about TMJ or Botox® treatment, please contact our office.