How Does Botox Help TMJ Pain?

Temporomandibular joint pain can be excruciating. It can be caused by poorly aligned teeth that force the jawbones to not close properly. This additional pressure can lead to inflammation that forces the jaws into an unnatural position. The longer the TMJ remains compromised, the more likely it is that you will begin to experience pain in the face and head, as well as down into the neck. At Mark H Wright DDS, located in Colorado Springs, Dr. Mark Wright has started using Botox to treat the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorder.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox is an injectable cosmetic treatment made from botulinum toxin A. This unique medication is injected into muscle tissue and has been successfully used to treat chronic migraines and overactive bladder symptoms. Once injected into the muscle tissue, the muscles will begin to relax, releasing the tension that often leads to inflammation and chronic pain. Botox injections are given every 60 to 90 days, depending on how well your body responds. The more injections you receive over time, the longer their effects will last.

Relieving the Pain of TMJ

Once your jaws are out of alignment, they can begin to become inflamed and may start cramping. The longer they remain in this state, the more pain they will cause. Eventually, the tightness of the muscle tissue will begin to extend toward the facial muscles and downward into the neck. By introducing Botox injections, these muscles will begin to relax, and the overall tension causing the immense pain will begin to subside.

Choose a Dentist You Trust

When you are interested in trying a new procedure, don’t go to just any dentist. You will want to choose a dentist who is willing to talk to you about the various treatment options, explaining the pros and cons of each so you can be fully informed. If you want to learn more about Botox, choose a dentist who uses it often as part of their menu of services. They will have the experience you can rely on and will use it effectively when it comes to treating your TMJ disorder.

Colorado Springs, Colorado residents who want to learn more about receiving Botox injections for their TMJ pain can contact Dr. Mark Wright of Mark H Wright DDS, who can provide you with the Botox treatments you need to overcome your chronic pain. Call (719) 635-1622 (existing patients) or (719) 624-4122 (new patients). You don’t have to suffer from TMJ pain any longer!