TMJ, Jaw Pain and Therapeutic Botox in Toronto
Jaw pain can affect eating, sleeping and everyday comfort. Problems involving the temporomandibular joint and the muscles surrounding it are often grouped under the term TMD, or temporomandibular disorders. Patients commonly refer to these problems simply as "TMJ."
Dr. Tarra Elliott provides assessment and treatment options for patients experiencing jaw pain, clenching, grinding and related symptoms at Eglinton Way Dentistry in Midtown Toronto.
What Is the TMJ?
The temporomandibular joints connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow the jaw to move when you chew, speak and yawn. Problems can involve the joint itself, the surrounding muscles or a combination of factors.
What Are Common Signs of a TMJ Problem?
Symptoms associated with temporomandibular disorders can include:
jaw pain or tenderness
jaw muscle tightness
clicking or popping
difficulty opening the mouth widely
pain while chewing
clenching or grinding
worn teeth
discomfort around the jaw, face or temples
headaches associated with jaw tension
Because head, neck and facial pain can have many possible causes, an assessment is important before assuming the jaw joint is responsible.
Can Clenching and Grinding Cause Jaw Pain?
Yes.
Clenching or grinding can place significant force on the teeth and jaw muscles, particularly when it occurs repeatedly or during sleep. Patients may notice morning jaw tightness, muscle tenderness, headaches or wear on the teeth.
How Is TMJ Pain Treated?
Treatment depends on what appears to be contributing to the problem. Options can include behavioural changes, bite appliances, management of clenching and grinding and other therapies.
For selected patients, therapeutic Botox may also be considered.
How Can Botox Be Used for Jaw Pain?
Botox reduces activity in the muscles into which it is injected. When excessive muscle activity or clenching is contributing to a patient's symptoms, carefully placed Botox injections may help reduce muscle tension and discomfort.
Dr. Elliott is trained and certified in the therapeutic use of Botox for TMJ-related treatment.
Is Botox Right for Everyone With TMJ Pain?
No.
Jaw pain can have different causes, so treatment needs to begin with an assessment. Dr. Elliott can examine your jaw function, discuss your symptoms and determine whether Botox or another treatment option is most appropriate.
Learn more about treating TMJ with Botox in this video: