Headaches are a common problem when dealing with jaw pain; however, they don’t have to be a way of life. Although there are many worthwhile treatment options available that can alleviate tension placed on jaw joints, there is one solution many people often dismiss – BOTOX injections. Keep reading to discover how this highly effective option can help you achieve the relief you need to live life to the fullest.
How Does TMJ Lead to Headaches?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder occurs when facial trauma or general inflammation forms. Stress, teeth grinding, a misaligned bite, and more can increase the chances of developing TMJ, causing your jaw joints to become overworked and swollen over time.
As you tense these muscles, they can cause headaches to form. Why? Because the TMJs are connected to your lower jawbone and skull. When biting down or applying any kind of pressure, symptoms are generated not only inside the mouth but also in the head.
How Can BOTOX Help?
According to a review published in 2017 about the role of BOTOX and its ability to improve TMJ symptoms, among 24 studies, researchers discovered that this injectable solution helped improve jaw mobility as well as reduce pain and clicking.
Dentists can administer BOTOX, which is a neurotoxin used to temporarily relax and alleviate jaw pain by targeting the muscles that often tense up. It’s important to remember, though, that BOTOX alone cannot adequately cure TMJ. It’s often used in combination with other treatment options, such as occlusal splints or equilibration/occlusal adjustments.
Why See a Dentist for BOTOX?
Dentists may not be the first individuals you think of when considering BOTOX to treat your TMJ headaches; however, they are some of the best for a few reasons:
- They are skilled in facial injections, as they must administer local anesthesia for a multitude of dental procedures.
- They understand facial and oral anatomy because of the type of work that is required as a dentist.
- They undergo additional training to administer BOTOX safely.
- They are well-versed in TMJ and how to treat it, recognizing the connection between the joints and skull and how tension can lead to headaches.
Living with TMJ headaches is no longer necessary thanks to BOTOX. By asking your dentist about possible treatment, you can get the relief you need and start embracing a pain-free way of life.
About the McCarl Dental Group at Shipley’s Choice
Our team at McCarl Dental Group at Shipley’s Choice consists of three expert dentists who understand how difficult it can be to struggle with TMJ disorder (TMD). With the help of BOTOX, though, we can temporarily alleviate discomfort so that you experience a more fluid range of motion when opening and closing your mouth. If you need help to address your TMJ headaches, call our office or visit our website.