TMJ & TMD Treatments
Understanding TMJ and TMD Symptoms and Treatment
Have you ever noticed a painful clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth, persistent headaches or migraines or experienced a sense of clogging or congestion in one or both of your ears? These are just a handful of symptoms that may be associated with Temporomandibular Dysfunction, commonly known as TMD, a prevalent condition impacting the jaw joint, also referred to as the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ).
What is TMJ and TMD?
TMJ, or the Temporomandibular Joint, refers to the two joints connecting your lower jaw to the temporal bone on each side of your head. These flexible joints allow for smooth jaw movements, such as talking, chewing, and yawning. When the TMJ functions abnormally, it leads to Temporomandibular Dysfunction, commonly known as TMD.
TMD encompasses a range of conditions resulting from abnormal TMJ function or positioning, often manifesting as pain, muscle spasms, and jaw issues. It typically arises when teeth are missing, misaligned, crowded, or misshaped, disrupting the balanced movements required for chewing and biting. Consequently, the TMJ and chewing muscles attempt to compensate for this imbalance, leading to symptoms confirming the presence of TMD.
TMJ and TMD Treatment Options:
Nightguard: Our specially designed nightguard, worn during sleep, alleviates TMJ discomfort and protects teeth from grinding and clenching during the night.
Muscle Therapy: Muscle therapy techniques are incorporated into the treatment plan to relieve muscle tension and discomfort linked to TMJ issues.
Occlusal Guard: Also known as a bite guard, an occlusal guard is recommended to reduce the risks associated with an incorrect bite. This helps minimize sensitivity, gum recession, and the chances of fractures.
Trigger Point Therapy: Treatment of Trigger Points, or “knots”, in the jaw muscles or even neck and shoulder muscles can help alleviate myofascial pain related to those muscles. This can be done with local anesthetic or with BOTOX®/Xeomin®
BOTOX®/Xeomin® Dentistry for TMJ:
The use of BOTOX®/Xeomin® in dentistry is a cutting-edge technique offering an alternative approach to relieve symptoms associated with teeth grinding, including TMJ headaches and facial pain. It affects muscles by inhibiting or limiting their ability to contract. BOTOX®/Xeomin® has shown effectiveness in alleviating chronic tension-type headaches (TTH) and reducing teeth clenching and grinding, which can lead to tooth wear, TMJD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder), muscular pain, joint locking, and noise. Patients with TMJ dislocation have reported reduced episodes of discomfort with BOTOX®/Xeomin® treatments.
Associated Dentists is certified by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics (AAFE) to perform BOTOX®/Xeomin® treatments for dental patients and each treatment is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
For more information and to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us. We’re here to provide you with personalized care and relief from TMJ and TMD symptoms.
To learn more and to schedule an appointment please contact us.
FAQS – BOTOX® / Xeomin® Treatments
What is BOTOX® / Xeomin® used for?
BOTOX®/Xeomin® treatments at Associated Dentists are multifaceted, serving both aesthetic and therapeutic purposes. Apart from its widely recognized role in reducing facial wrinkles and fine lines, BOTOX® is also utilized to alleviate discomfort related to teeth grinding (bruxism) and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, enhancing both your appearance and oral health.
What is Xeomin used for?
Similar to BOTOX®, Xeomin® is used for cosmetic improvements, such as minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as for medical purposes, including relief from teeth grinding and TMJ headaches. Xeomin® offers a slightly different formulation for those seeking alternative options within neuromodulator treatments.
What states can dental hygienists administer BOTOX® / Xeomin® ?
Regulations on who can administer BOTOX®/Xeomin® vary by state, including specific rules for dental hygienists. In some states, dental hygienists may administer BOTOX®/Xeomin® under the direct supervision of a dentist, primarily for therapeutic purposes related to oral health issues. It’s essential to consult local regulations for the most accurate information.
What is the purpose of BOTOX® / Xeomin® ?
The primary purpose of BOTOX® / Xeomin® at Associated Dentists extends beyond cosmetic enhancements to include therapeutic benefits. BOTOX® / Xeomin® effectively reduces symptoms associated with bruxism and TMJ disorders, providing patients with relief from discomfort and improving their quality of life.
Can I wash my face after Xeomin?
Yes, you can wash your face after receiving Xeomin® treatments; however, it’s advised to wait at least a few hours before doing so. Gentle washing without rubbing or applying pressure to the treated areas is recommended to avoid displacing the product.
What does your face look like immediately after BOTOX® / Xeomin®?
Immediately after BOTOX® / Xeomin® treatment, you may notice slight redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites, which typically subsides within a few hours to days. The full effects of BOTOX® / Xeomin® become visible within 7 to 14 days, revealing a smoother, more relaxed appearance.
How do these treatments align with the philosophy of self-care at Associated Dentists?
BOTOX® / Xeomin® treatments at Associated Dentists embody our commitment to comprehensive self-care, offering patients both aesthetic and therapeutic benefits. These treatments are part of our Treat-Yourself Treatments, aimed at enhancing overall well-being and confidence alongside dental health.
Can BOTOX®/Xeomin® treatments be scheduled during a dental appointment?
Absolutely. To streamline care and enhance convenience, patients at Associated Dentists can schedule BOTOX® / Xeomin® treatments during their dental appointments. This integrated approach allows patients to address both dental needs and aesthetic desires in one visit, promoting a holistic sense of well-being.