Pain Management: Overcome TMJ Pain with Botox Treatment
Many people associate Botox with cosmetics, but it’s a substance that has more uses than filling wrinkles. Doctors use Botox to treat migraines, bruxism, TMJ pain, and excessive sweating. If you want to understand the power of Botox treatments in Chicago, Illinois, schedule an appointment with A Brush Above Family Dentistry. Drs. Marcella Guzman, Philip Fidel, and Rosa Sinno are here to discuss personalized Botox treatment options that may be right for you.
How does Botox work?
Botox, or botulinum toxin type A, is a natural protein produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. In small, controlled doses, Botox acts as a neuromodulator by temporarily inhibiting the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a chemical messenger responsible for most involuntary actions, including muscle contractions.
When Botox is injected into a muscle, it blocks the release of acetylcholine, causing the muscle to relax. This relaxation is why Botox is commonly used in cosmetic and medical treatments. The doctor can use Botox to reduce wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles or alleviate conditions like chronic migraines, TMJ pain, and muscle spasms by decreasing muscle activity in targeted areas.
What can Botox help with?
Botox is currently used in over 20 treatments. Here are notable applications for Botox.
- Aesthetics: Would you like smoother, rejuvenated skin without surgery? Botox injections into your face can smooth out wrinkles, fine lines, and other aging lines to achieve a youthful appearance.Â
- TMJ pain: TMJ pain occurs when the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) located on either side of the face are strained. TMJ disorder (TMD) causes numerous symptoms, including headaches, jaw pain, locked jaws, and earaches. Botox relaxes overactive muscles to relieve TMJ pain.Â
- Bruxism: Botox relaxes the overactive masseter and temporalis muscles responsible for jaw clenching. By blocking nerve signals to these muscles, Botox reduces the force and frequency of grinding, which relieves jaw pain and prevents tooth damage.
- Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis): When Botox is injected into areas with excessive sweating, it blocks the nerve signals that trigger the release of acetylcholine, shutting down or reducing the activity of the sweat glands in the targeted region.
What should I expect from Botox treatment?
Whether using Botox for cosmetic or therapeutic benefits, the procedure is painless and quick. The dentist injects the Botox product into specific facial muscles with a micro-thin needle. The side effects are minimal; many patients resume their daily activities after treatment. You may experience mild bruising and pain at the injection sites, but the discomfort can be managed by applying an ice pack.
Patients experience the effects after 2-4 days, although peak performance is after two weeks. Botox lasts 3-6 months, after which you’ll need retreatment to preserve the results.
Where can I get Botox treatment near me?
A Brush Above Family Dentistry proudly offers Botox treatments in Chicago, IL, and the surrounding locations. Our dentists maintain the highest level of care with Botox treatments to achieve the most optimal outcomes. Call (773) 840-0378 to schedule an appointment with our office.
Dr. Marcella Guzman
Dr. Marcella Guzman is an admired dental professional renowned for her unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care, with a rich background in biology and sociology. Since graduating from The University of Illinois Dental School in 1994, she has enhanced her skills through extensive continuing education, specializing in cutting-edge technologies such as Cerec 3-D, sleep apnea, Invisalign, and laser dentistry. Her dedication to staying up-to-date on the latest advancements ensures that her patients receive top-notch care. A distinguished member of The American Dental Association and Chicago Dental Society, Dr. Guzman's wealth of experience, coupled with her compassionate approach, establishes her as a trusted specialist in the field of dentistry.
