How Soon Will I Notice Results After BOTOX® for TMJ Pain?

Patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, also known as TMD or more simply as TMJ pain, often find it difficult and uncomfortable to do even the simplest of things — like eat, talk, laugh, or sleep. For many of these patients, over-the-counter products and at-home tactics do little to help, leaving more and more people turning to professional TMJ pain relief treatment each year. At Elegant Smiles in Las Vegas, NV, our caring team of dentists and dental specialists is dedicated to helping patients get the rapid and lasting TMJ pain relief they deserve so that they can get back to the activities they enjoy. Among our most popular and effective treatments for relieving TMD pain are BOTOX injections. While most people are aware of the cosmetic applications of BOTOX, many are surprised to learn that these simple injections can offer a life-changing opportunity to reduce the symptoms of TMD. Keep reading to learn more about how BOTOX for TMJ pain works, how soon you may notice an improvement in your symptoms, and whether it may be the solution you've been searching for to restore your comfort and quality of life.

What causes TMD?

TMD and TMJ pain can be caused by a number of factors, some of the most common of which include:

• Injury to the jawbone or joint
• Persistent clenching and grinding
• Bite misalignment (malocclusion)

Over time — or sometimes suddenly — these can lead to pain and other symptoms, including a popping or clicking sound in the jaw, frequent headaches that begin in front of the ears, facial muscle spasms, and pain or tenderness in and around the jaw.

How does BOTOX work for jaw pain?

Much like its cosmetic application, BOTOX for TMJ pain works by temporarily paralyzing specific muscles that are responsible for the patient's symptoms. When injected into the muscles, BOTOX forces them to relax, which can make it easier and more comfortable to move the jaw, eat, chew, and more.

How soon does BOTOX for TMJ pain start working?

While some patients report an improvement in their TMD symptoms as little as a day or two after receiving BOTOX injections, it usually takes several days or potentially up to a week to experience the full effects of treatment.

How long does BOTOX for TMD last?

While individual results can vary somewhat, most patients who experience TMJ pain relief with BOTOX can expect to enjoy their results for several months. Based on your response to your initial round of treatment, our specialists can help determine the most appropriate treatment schedule for achieving consistent, long-term relief.

Will BOTOX for jaw pain change my appearance?

Because BOTOX is so commonly associated with aesthetic treatments, many patients wonder whether using BOTOX for TMJ symptoms will also affect their cosmetic appearance. When injected by a skilled provider using the appropriate technique and distribution across muscles responsible for TMJ pain, patients can find relief without unwanted changes to their looks.

Don't let TMJ pain hold you back any longer. BOTOX injections for jaw pain in Las Vegas, NV can help

The pain associated with TMD can be debilitating and disruptive, but relief is possible. To learn more about our modern suite of solutions for TMJ pain relief, including BOTOX injections, specialized dental appliances, and others, call Elegant Smiles to schedule your appointment at our convenient Las Vegas, NV dental office today.