Botox and its different brands are a neurotoxin protein and may help treat symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. You may benefit most from this treatment if other methods haven’t worked. Botox may help treat the following TMJ disorder symptoms:
- Jaw tension
- Headaches due to teeth grinding
- Lockjaw in cases of severe stress.
Botox treatment for TMJ disorder is a nonsurgical, outpatient procedure. Your Doctor can perform it right in their office. Each treatment session typically takes 10-30 minutes. You could expect to have at least three injection sessions over the course of several months.
Your doctor will decide the number of Botox injections you need. The injection may cause you to feel slight pain, similar to a bug bite or prick. Doctors recommend easing the pain with a cold pack or numbing cream.
Although some improvement can be felt within a day or two of treatment, it usually takes several days to feel relief. People who’ve had Botox treatment for TMJ can expect to return to their regular activities as soon as they leave their doctor’s office.
You should remain upright and avoid rubbing or massaging the injection sites for several hours after treatment. This helps prevent the toxin from spreading to other muscles.
Cost
The cost of Botox treatment for TMJ will vary. Your treatment needs, the number of Botox injections, and the severity of your symptoms will determine how much you spend on the procedure.
The geographic location where you receive treatment will also affect the cost. Treatment could cost anywhere from $250-$750.
Outlook
Botox injections are shown to be a relatively safe and effective treatment for TMJ disorders. But more research is needed to determine its full range of benefits.
Other treatment options for TMJ
Botox injections aren’t the only treatment for TMJ. Other surgical and nonsurgical options can ease your symptoms. Traditional and alternative treatments for TMJ include:
- Medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatories
- Muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy
- Oral splints or mouthguards
- Open-joint surgery to repair or replace the joint
- Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgery that uses a scope and small instruments to treat TMJ disorders
- Arthrocentesis, a minimally invasive procedure that helps remove debris and inflammatory byproducts
- Surgery on the mandible to treat pain and lockjaw
- Acupuncture
- Relaxation techniques.