TMJ problems are common in the population although many people do not focus on them like they focus on dental problems.

The most reported symptom of TMJ problems is the pain one might feel during chewing or randomly in the day. It’s like aching pain in the face and the site of the joint or a headache that might be mistaken with other causes.

Other symptoms of TMJ include pain and tenderness around the ear and locking of the joint that’s felt during eating or talking. Sometimes one might feel a click sensation when he or she opens the mouth.

The exact cause of TMJ disorders isn’t definite and it’s a multifactorial sometimes, some doctors say it’s genetics and others say bruxism and arthritis usually do this problem. And it’s true, bruxism (or clenched teeth) is a well-known cause for TMJ disorders, but how it can be treated?

Since the masseter is the main actor in the problem of bruxism, it will be larger and somehow stronger than usual in its activity. Hence, the doctors thought that relaxing this muscle a bit will remove the tension exerted on the joint and will relieve the symptoms.

Botox is a neurotoxin (botulinum toxin A) that’s injected in the site of the muscle to block the signals that trigger its activity while being unaware of it. This effect will produce relaxation in the muscle and will relieve the tension. It’s first used to treat wrinkles and blepharospasm, however doctors use it in other tasks (including bruxism) that are not FDA approved. Therefore, is it worse the trial? Let’s see…

-          It’s an effective and safe option to treat TMJ disorders, the results will show up in 1-3 days and you’ll feel the pain disappearing

-          It’s a minimally-invasive treatment, which means there’s no need for surgery or something bigger than local anesthesia.

-          There is no need to postpone any of your activities, as you will proceed in your daily work once you’ve received the injection.

-          Relaxing the muscles means reducing the grinding of teeth, which in turn improves teeth sensitivity and protects them from wearing out.

 

-          It’s a temporary solution, as the results last only for months depending on the metabolism and severity of your case.

-          There might some side effects such as headache, infection and flue symptoms, and temporary lid droop.

-          It does not target the main problem, as it only relieves the symptoms for months then you will need another injection when the symptoms come back. Therefore, a proper diagnosis is necessary to address the main problem, and if you have anxiety that triggers bruxism, you would better address it along with the Botox.

-          Insurance does not cover it unless it’s a very severe problem, therefore it might be costy for some people as you’re going to repeat it every 3-7 months. Cost might be 250$-750$ each time.