What helps TMJ pain? Smiling, laughing, chewing, talking- all of these facial movements come without a second thought. But, if you have TMJ those simple, natural movements could cause you a lot of pain and discomfort. Here are some tips from your local dentist on managing TMJ pain.
Understanding TMJ, TMD, and Jaw Pain
Temporomandibular disorders, including arthritis, dislocation, injury, infection, or stress can cause painful clicking and locking of the jaw joint, neck pain, headaches, and tinnitus. The temporomandibular joint is where the lower jawbone meets the skull. The muscles and ligaments in this joint allow you to move your mouth.
While TMJ symptoms may not last long for some people, they can last for years for other patients. This included pain and discomfort that is worsened by clenching, swallowing, chewing, or grinding teeth. Here are some ways you can manage your symptoms.
Relax
Yes, really. To help alleviate TMJ pain you should minimize wide jaw movements like chewing, yawning, yelling, or singing. Keep your muscles as relaxed as possible.
Reduce Stress
Another great way to help minimize pain and discomfort associated with TMJ is stress management. Yoga, meditation, gardening, and other relaxing activities can help you loosen and relax your jaw as well as calming your mind.
Stop Slouching
Sitting in an uncomfortable position for longer periods can cause you to feel more pain in your jaw. When you are sitting, choose a chair with good back support, and take frequent breaks to improve your posture. When driving, watching TV, or reading sit upright and ensure that your back is supported.
Exercise Your Jaw
Jaw exercises increase mobility in your joints and help alleviate pain. The best jaw exercises include:
Sleep Well
Getting good quality sleep is important for overall health. To help reduce TMJ pain you should sleep on your back and use pillows to support your neck. Don’t sleep on your stomach or tuck your hand under your jaw when sleeping.
Correct Bad Habits
There are certain habits or tendencies that can lead to temporomandibular joint disorders. These include things like:
- Grinding your teeth
- Clenching your teeth
- Nail biting
- Resting your jaw in your hand
- Chewing cheek and lips
- Clenching jaw muscles and pushing tongue against the teeth
Take note of these unhealthy habits and discuss them with your doctor.
Heat & Cold for TMJ
Ice or a cold compress can help reduce swelling and pain. Alternatively, heat helps increase blood flow and relax your jaw muscles. Apply a hot or cold compress for 15-20 minutes at a time for pain relief.
[Related: Botox for TMJ]
Avoid Triggers
There are certain foods and activities that can trigger TMJ pain. These typically involve opening your mouth forcefully or moving your jaw in an extreme way. Try to avoid the following:
- Chewing gum
- Yawning
- Yelling
- Eating foods that require prolonged chewing
- Crunchy or hard foods
- Taking large bites of food
Treatment Options for TMJ
For some people, at home pain relief exercises may not be enough. Some patients need treatment to alleviate their pain and discomfort. There are different options for this depending on your anatomy and the cause of your TMJ.
What Helps TMJ Pain? TMJ Dentist in Rockville Maryland
Don’t suffer with TMJ pain. If at home treatments aren’t helping, you need to see a professional. We can do an exam, discuss your history, and create a customized treatment plan to minimize your TMJ pain. To learn more about your treatment options for TMJ please contact Hackley DDS today. Our TMJ dentist in Rockville Maryland is ready to help you.
Botox in dentistry is actually very popular. If you think that Botox is only used for cosmetic purposes, stick around. Here’s your guide to how Botox is used in dentistry.
Botox in Dentistry
Botox, a neurotoxin, is quite popular in the cosmetic industry. It is known for erasing wrinkles and fine lines. But it has applications beyond just aesthetics and some of those are in the world of dentistry.
Botox works by blocking nerve signals in muscles. This relaxes the muscle. While it has many uses, this is particularly beneficial in dentistry for treating issues related to muscle tension and hyperactivity.
TMJ Disorders
A significant application of Botox in dentistry is managing temporomandibular joint disorders. TMJ disorders cause discomfort and considerable pain for patients. In fact, they can even make it difficult to chew or speak.
Botox dentists can relax the muscle and reduce strain on the temporomandibular joint. This offers relief to patients and alleviates pain. Additionally, Botox has been found to reduce headaches associated with TMJ disorders.
Bruxism
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition that impacts many people. Excessive clenching and grinding can lead to tooth wear, fractures, and even damage to dental restorations.
Fortunately, Botox plays a crucial role in managing bruxism. It relaxes the jaw muscles responsible for teeth grinding. This reduces the intensity and frequency of grinding and clenching, which promotes oral health and protects the teeth.
Gummy Smile
Another way Botox is used in dentistry is by treating gummy smiles. Gummy smile is when the top lip rests high on the gums, showing a lot of gum when the patient smiles. Botox can reduce the appearance of a gummy smile by relaxing the upper lip. So, the gums remained covered when a patient smiles.
Other Botox Uses
Botox isn’t limited to standalone treatments in dentistry. There are other medical applications, like migraine relief and excessive sweating. It also has many cosmetic applications. In fact, your dentist is one of the best choices for a Botox injector. Due to their extensive knowledge and understanding of facial anatomy, dentists make great Botox injectors.
Wrinkles
Botox is known for its ability to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. But did you know that this can enhance your cosmetic dental treatments? Botox, in combination with dental implants or veneers is a great way to give you a natural looking, balanced smile. Botox reduces brow lines, forehead lines, crow’s feet, and lip lines. Combining Botox and cosmetic dentistry can give you a beautiful smile and rejuvenated, youthful appearance.
Migraine Relief
For patients who suffer chronic migraines, Botox may offer relief. Strategically injecting Botox around the neck and head reduces the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. Since Botox relaxes muscles and blocks pain signals that can trigger migraines, it offers great hope for patients who suffer chronic migraines.
Non-Surgical Facelift
Botox is a wonderful alternative to surgical facelifts. You can get a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance with a few simple injections. Targeting the right facial muscles can smooth the skin and give you a refreshed look while enhancing your natural beauty. Additionally, Botox can be used in combination with dermal fillers to give you optimal results.
Benefits of Botox in Dentistry
Aside from the benefits of treatments, Botox is also a minimally invasive treatment. Unlike surgical options, Botox requires no downtime, and you can resume your normal daily activities after treatment.
Additionally, Botox offers long lasting results. While they are not permanent, you can typically enjoy the benefits of Botox for 3-6 months or longer. It depends on your body and treatment areas.
Best Botox Dentist in Rockville
Now that you know what Botox is used for in dentistry, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Hackley. Whether you are looking for relief with TMJ or want to erase wrinkles, we are here for all your Botox needs. Contact us today to get started.
If you have TMJ pain, you’ve probably tried at least a few different treatments to alleviate the pain. You may be wondering “does Botox help TMJ?.” Well, it could. Here’s what you need to know about Botox treatment for temporomandibular disorders.
How Botox Works
Botox is a neurotoxin. It is well known for its ability to lessen wrinkles and fine lines, forehead lines, crowns feet and more. But it also has therapeutic purposes. Since the primary function of Botox is relaxing facial muscles, it can relieve pain from tight jaws and other facial muscles that cause tension and headaches.
What is TMJ?
The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is a hinge for your mouth. It allows you to eat and talk. However, TMJ disorders can many painful symptoms. These include:
- Tension headaches
- Sore cheeks and jaw
- Teeth grinding
- Teeth clenching
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Jaw click
- Limited jaw mobility
- Hypermobility and hyperactivity
- Difficulty speaking or chewing
- And more
Since Botox relaxes muscles, it helps alleviate the pain associated with TMJ disorder. Botox for TMJ disorders is typically recommended as a complementary to other TMJ disorder therapy. But Botox alone may resolve certain symptoms.
Since Botox is temporary, the treatment does need to be repeated. However, the treatment lasts around 3-5 months.
Results
Studies found that Botox injections improved several measures of TMJ disorders. Overall, Botox showed a 59% pain reduction in the first month, and 70% reduction in pain after 6 months. Other research has shown that Botox injection in the lateral pterygoid reduced TMD symptoms regardless of the dosage, frequency, or injection method.
FAQ About Botox for TMJ
Since most people don’t’ know this treatment exists, it’s normal to have some questions about it. Here are some of the most frequent questions, but you can always schedule a consultation to discuss any of your questions and concerns with the provider.
Will Botox for TMJ disorder change the shape of my face?
It may, but only in a positive way. Overworked jaw muscles are tense and may cause your face to look wider. As Botox relaxes these muscles, the appearance of your jaw muscles may lessen. So, you get a slimmer face and pain relief, all in one!
Is Botox for TMJ covered by insurance?
This depends on your insurance company. Typically, Botox for cosmetic uses is not covered, but it can be covered to treat chronic medical conditions. So, ask your insurance company if your treatment may be covered.
How much does TMJ Botox cost?
The cost of your treatment will depend on a few different factors. This includes:
- How many units of Botox you need
- The cost per unit
- Providers time
- Supplies needed
- Other fees
- Whether insurance will cover a portion of your treatment
How much Botox do I need? Well, that depends on the severity of your symptoms. Some studies show that 20 units per side is an effective dosage. However, researchers note that women may need lower doses.
Can my dentist administer Botox?
Absolutely! In fact, your dentist may be the best person to inject Botox. Dentists have a deep understanding of the facial muscles and structures. This knowledge and training allow them to know exactly where to inject the Botox for the best possible results.
Where can I get Botox for TMJ disorder near me?
Hackley DDS is proud to offer Botox for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. So, whether you want to address signs of aging, or improve a gummy smile or painful TMJ, we can help. Our talented dentists maintain the highest levels of accreditation and ongoing education. You can rest assured you are getting the best, most effective treatment. Contact us today to learn more.
