Botulinum toxin causes muscle paralysis throughout the body. Known popularly as Botox, these injections are mainly used to treat wrinkles. In contrast to treatments like liposuction, no anesthesia or inpatient stay is required. Expect to see results and heal immediately after treatment.
Benefits of a Botox Treatment for TMJ
A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder affects the area between your jaw and skull. Symptoms of this disorder include pain, discomfort and difficulty in moving your jaw. You may also have problems with eating, swallowing or speaking.
There are several myths that surround the use of Botox. A common myth is that the procedure is solely cosmetic. However, Botox treatment is used to reduce tension and spasticity in patients with muscular disorders. It relieves the symptoms of patients with TMJ, which include popping noises and teeth grinding.
The effectiveness of Botox is proven in treating various muscular conditions. The drug provides no cure, but patients do find relief from their daily symptoms.
The Procedure
The average Botox treatment is fast and performed in about 15 minutes. It’s conveniently performed in a clinic or doctor’s office. Patients receive a series of injectable treatments that usually occur every few months. How many treatments you need and how often you need them depends on the severity of the condition you are treating.
Fast Results
Patients should expect results that occur immediately after the injection. They should also expect to heal quickly afterwards. Some people may experience mild pain or tingling that last for several hours or days. However the effects are so mild, patients are allowed to return home or to work within the same day.
Steps for Optimal Healing
People can take steps to increase the healing process. The most important steps are to avoid touching the injection site too much. It is also recommended that you take a break from cosmetic use. In general, avoid applying too much pressure in that area. This occurs easily during sleeping or eating. Also, restrict certain activities like playing sports or getting deep skincare treatments.
Side Effects
Like every medical treatment, serious side effects may occur after using Botox. Its safety depends on the amount of dosage and the injection site.
Follow Ups
Good doctors suggest follow-up appointments. The first one usually occurs after two weeks. Doctors look over the results and make notes on their charts. Last, they decide if and when to set the next appointments. This can depend on the severity of your condition.
Contact AZ-TMJ Today
Botox is used to treat pain, tension and other symptoms of muscular disorders like TMJ. The procedure is performed in a series of same-day visits to the doctor. The most important fact is that the benefits exceed the risks.
For the safest and most effective results, it’s important that you visit a highly experienced doctor. Call Dr. Farrell for a consultation at 480-945-3629 today.
