What Causes My TMJ?
There are a wide variety of reasons why you could be experiencing jaw pain or TMJ. There could be a problem with the Temporomandibular Joint itself or your pain could be arising from the muscle associated with your jaw. A previous jaw injury, arthritis, fractures, dislocations, clenching and/or teeth grinding, and even structural issues since birth could be causing your TMJ.
Stress can cause the muscles in your face and jaw to contract which can worsen your TMJ pain. A poor diet and lack of sleep are also factors that cause TMJ to become unbearable.
TMJ Treatment With BOTOX®
Though it’s normal to hear about using BOTOX® injections for cosmetic treatments to remove crows feet, it can also be used as a temporary, non-invasive solution to treat TMJ and jaw joint tension to relax your facial muscles.
Your Southlake dentist will ask you to clench your jaw in order to locate your masseter muscle – the muscle that allows you to open and close your mouth, and to chew. Several small injections will be placed into the muscle allowing the muscle to relax. In its relaxed state, the tension and stress that was once there are eliminated giving you relief from your TMJ symptoms.
It is possible to experience mild discomfort from the procedure, but any temporary bruising, numbness, or redness around the injection sites is brief. This non-invasive TMJ treatment option allows you to get back to your normal life free of pain in only 10 – 20 minutes. Don’t worry, this treatment will not affect your smile or chewing.
If you’re looking for some relief from your TMJ, contact your Southlake neuromuscular dentist today by filling out an online form or calling (817) 587-4566. Looking for a permanent solution for your TMJ or jaw pain? Give us a call to schedule a consultation. We are here to help you achieve a full life free of pain.
