BOTOX® is most well-known as a way to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines in order to look younger. But that’s not the only use for this procedure! The fact of the matter is that there are actually multiple applications for BOTOX®, not the least of which is treatment for TMJ disorder. If you’re curious to learn more about the non-cosmetic uses for BOTOX®, read on.
How Does BOTOX® Work?
The BOTOX® procedure involves injecting a small amount of botulinum toxin into a specific part of your body. The effects of the toxin temporarily stop targeted muscles in the area from moving. When used as a cosmetic treatment, this prevents facial muscles from making unconscious contractions that can result in the formation of wrinkles; however, it also provides a useful way to treat a variety of muscular issues, including TMJ disorder.
How is BOTOX® Used to Treat TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder is the result of tension in your jaw muscles, which can lead to chronic jaw pain and other unpleasant symptoms. A BOTOX® procedure can help the jaw muscles relax, thus reducing the tension that’s contributing to your pain. As such, your dentist may suggest BOTOX® as a way to help you find relief from your TMJ-related symptoms.
Additionally, BOTOX® can be used to address bruxism, which is one of the biggest risk factors for a TMJ disorder. Bruxism is when you unconsciously grind and clench your teeth, often while you’re asleep. With BOTOX®, it’s possible to put a stop to these involuntary movements, meaning your jaw joint won’t be exposed to as much pressure.
It should be noted that BOTOX® is considered to be a temporary solution for TMJ disorder. The effects can last for several months, but they will wear off eventually, at which point you will need a follow-up treatment in order to continue enjoying the relief that BOTOX® provides.
What Other Uses for BOTOX® Are There?
BOTOX® can be used in a number of other situations as well:
- It can help relax an overactive bladder.
- It can address excessive sweating by blocking the brain chemicals that activate the sweat glands.
- It can be used to treat strabismus (which is also known as crossed eyes) by stopping certain muscles around the eyes from moving. This helps the eyes align as they should.
- It can be used to temporarily stop hemifacial spasms, which are muscle contractions on one side of the face that often involve the eyelids.
These are just a few examples of how modern medicine takes advantage of BOTOX®; the treatment has various other possible applications.
It’s always worth keeping the many uses of BOTOX® in mind. For example, if you are currently struggling with a TMJ disorder, you should talk to your dentist to see if a BOTOX® treatment is a viable option.
About the Author
Dr. David Salibian is our trusted dentist here at EyeSmile Dentistry and Optometry of Belmont. He puts a lot of emphasis on continuing education so that he can offer his patients a truly modern dental experience. When it comes to treating TMJ disorder, he offers BOTOX® injections as well as various other treatments. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Salibian, visit his website or call (617) 484-7869.