TMJ disorder is a widespread oral health concern, one that develops when the joints connecting your jaw and skull undergo excessive stress. The strain could be brought on by factors including missing teeth, injury, misalignment, untreated bruxism (teeth grinding), or complications with the growth of your smile. Patients suffer from painful symptoms including headaches, jaw and facial aches, or even a popping or clicking in the jaw. Lack of treatment could lead to issues opening and closing your mouth, and an increased risk of issues like bruxism. But we can offer a unique and minimally-invasive solution with Botox®!
How Botox® Treats TMJ Disorder
Botox® eases symptoms by reducing the inflammation in your jaw. Our team will inject Botox® or Dysport® into the strained portions of your jaw, and the medication then prevents muscle contractions from occurring. This eases symptoms and inflammation, allowing muscles to relax and easing symptoms related to TMJ disorder or bruxism. The total treatment time is often as little as 30 minutes, and the results can last for months. If needed, we can re-administer during your checkup visits. Along with improving your oral health, this can also help ease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you have any questions about how we diagnose TMJ disorder, or about treatment with Botox® or Dysport®, then please reach out to our team today.
Botox for TMJ/TMD – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Botox for TMJ/TMD?
Botox (botulinum toxin) is an injectable treatment used to relax overactive jaw muscles involved in temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ/TMD). By reducing muscle tension, Botox can help ease jaw pain, clenching, headaches, and related symptoms.
How does Botox help with TMJ/TMD?
Botox temporarily reduces the ability of the treated muscles—typically the masseter, temporalis, and sometimes pterygoid muscles—to contract forcefully. This decreases clenching and grinding and allows inflamed joints and muscles to heal.
What symptoms can Botox improve?
Botox may help with:
- Jaw pain or tightness
- Teeth grinding and jaw clenching (bruxism)
- Headaches and migraines
- Enlarged masseter muscles (“square jaw”)
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- TMJ-related ear pain or pressure
How long does the procedure take?
Treatment usually takes 10–20 minutes and involves a series of small injections into specific jaw muscles.
Does Botox hurt?
Most patients describe the injections as quick, mild pinches. A topical anesthetic can be used for added comfort.
How soon will I notice improvement?
Many patients begin to feel relief within 3–7 days, with full results developing over 2 weeks.
How long do the results last?
Relief typically lasts 3–4 months. Some patients experience longer-lasting improvement after multiple treatment sessions.
Is Botox safe for TMJ/TMD?
Yes. When administered by a trained dentist or medical professional familiar with facial anatomy, Botox is considered safe and effective for TMJ-related muscle disorders.
Are there side effects?
Side effects are usually mild and temporary. They may include:
- Mild soreness at injection sites
- Temporary weakness when chewing hard foods
- Minor bruising
- Headache (rare)
Most patients return to normal activities immediately.
Will Botox change my appearance?
Botox may slightly slim the jawline if the masseter muscles are enlarged from chronic clenching. This effect is often desired. The goal is functional improvement, not a dramatic change in facial appearance.
Can I combine Botox with other TMJ treatments?
Yes. Botox works well with nightguards, physical therapy, stress management, and other TMJ therapies. Your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan.
Is Botox covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Most dental and medical insurance plans do not cover Botox for TMJ/TMD, though some medical plans may partially reimburse if symptoms are severe. Your office can provide a cost estimate.
Who is a good candidate for Botox for TMJ/TMD?
Ideal candidates include people who experience:
- Persistent jaw pain or tightness
- Chronic clenching or grinding
- Headaches linked to muscle tension
- Limited jaw movement
- Pain that hasn’t improved with traditional therapies
How many units of Botox are used for TMJ treatment?
Typical treatment ranges from 20–60 units per side, depending on the strength of the jaw muscles and the patient’s symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Team Today
We can offer solutions for your strained and aching jaw joints, often with noninvasive treatments. To schedule an appointment or if you have questions, please call our office in San Diego, CA, at (619) 544-1745. We proudly serve the residents of San Diego and surrounding communities.