Benefits of Dental Botox(R) Treatments

TMJIn the terms of pop culture, we are now in the future. We all know it’s 2015, and we all know what cosmetic enhancements are. Except what would surprise you, is that some qualified dentists, like the ones at Dental Partners of Boston, uses Dental Botox  Treatments to relieve the symptoms of TMJ (temporo-mandibular joint) and associated jaw tension and pain. The injections can sometimes eliminate headaches which are caused by teeth clenching, grinding, and from severe stress. This treatment can even minimize lock jaw. There has been some evidence that proves its effectiveness but it’s only experimental at this point.

How does Botox treat these disorders?
When you use your jaw for daily actions like talking, eating, swallowing, the joint where your jawbone meets the skull, can become displaced or might just be overworked through excessive teeth grinding. These problems may cause sharp pain in the jaw, tension headaches, and lockjaw. When Botox is injected into these joints, it can relieve the tension by making the muscles unable to engage in the powerful movements that cause the problems.
Botox is an alternative treatment for these disorders, and is non-surgical which requires no hospital stay. This procedure is done in the qualified dentist’s office, and most patients experience a noticeable difference within one or two days of their initial treatment, although it could be a week.

Am I a candidate for Botox?

It is important for providers to screen patients to determine their eligibility because this is still an early treatment. Although it does appear that Botox is a safe alternative to traditional treatment such as physical therapy, muscle relaxers and pain medications, and even night guards. During your initial appointment, your dentist should carefully review every patient’s medical history before beginning the treatment. You must disclose whether you are using any medications, drugs, or other substances that could have a negative interaction with the injections. This would be the time to also disclose any known allergies to avoid a possible negative reaction. If you aren’t eligible for this treatment, other options such as TMJ Appliances will be recommended.

Risks and benefits of Dental Botox Treatment

If you suffer from soreness and pain caused by problems with the temporo-mandibular joint, this treatment can provide relief. This can also aid in preventing chipped teeth, or many other problems caused by the tension of this joint. While Botox appears to be safe for these disorders, other treatments may impact the effectiveness. In some cases, patients have experience bleeding at the injection sites or bruising, or excessive paralysis of the muscles in the treatment area. Complications are rare, but all possible risks should be considered and discussed with your dentist.

If you or anyone you know has these types of disorders, and are interested in this exciting treatment, please contact us to set up an appointment with one of the dentists here at the Dental Partners of Boston.

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