TMJ Botox Treatment

Newmarket

When you think about Botox, you think about a plastic surgeon, not your dental hygienist! Botox is widely known for its cosmetic uses, such as wrinkle reduction, removing those pesky frown lines, crows feet and forehead lines. Many think that Botox is only used by older people looking to stay young. But other than the stuff that’s skin deep, Botox can be used for a wide range of health problems associated with dentistry. The dental field is slowly starting to accept Botox as a treatment option across the globe.

How Does It Work?

Botox is a purified complex that is used to relax muscles where it is injected. It prevents muscles from contracting fully, thereby softening wrinkles and creases and allowing older faces to appear younger.

Therapeutic Applications Of Botox

Dentists are able to utilize Botox to treat a wide range of conditions such as bruxism, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), chronic headaches and migraines, and many more.

Bruxism

Bruxism refers to the grinding and clenching of teeth, which can cause facial pain and headaches. Botox injections may minimize this behaviour by reducing the force of the muscular contractions involved and can be useful when used in conjunction with a nightguard.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

TMJ is a common condition that can lead to jaw and facial muscle pain. Since much of the discomfort comes from the muscles, Botox can greatly relieve patients by relaxing these muscles.

Are dentists qualified to administer Botox?

Like any other practitioners administering Botox today, dentists are just as qualified, if not more. Dentists must go through the same training and certifications as dermatologists or plastic surgeons. Dentists also have extensive knowledge on facial anatomy and function of facial muscles, which proves to be a valuable asset in the administration of Botox and other facial injections.

In this day and age, patients are increasingly worried about the aesthetics along with the function of their dental restorations. Cosmetic applications of Botox can be used to complement dental restorations in order to give patients a more visually pleasing result.