Botox for TMJ? MCHD Dentistry can help!

Oct. 31, 2024

By Mary Wade Burnside

TMJ disorder is a painful condition in the jaw that can sometimes be cured. But in many cases, it can only be managed.
Luckily, in the past couple of years, Monongalia County Health Department’s full-service dental office has started offering a TMJ treatment to patients that might surprise some people: Botox and Jeuveau.
Usually thought of as brands of cosmetic injections (or neuromodulators) to smooth wrinkles, Botox and Jeuveau also helps relax muscles in the jaw, which then can reduce tension and strain that not only can cause pain at the site but also other symptoms such as headaches and difficulty chewing.
“TMJ disorder can be fairly common in our patients,” said Dr. Youseph Kassar, program manager of MCHD Dentistry.
In addition to his traditional dentist duties, Dr. Kassar has also been trained on how to administer Botox and Jeuveau, both cosmetically and therapeutically, which includes using it to treat TMJ disorder.
November National TMJ Awareness Month, according to the TMJ Association (tmj.org), a 501(c)3 patient advocacy group.
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the rest of the head.
“When this joint becomes painful or affects daily life, it becomes TMJ disorder,” Dr. Kassar said.
TMJ can start with a clicking and popping of the joint, he added.
“While this alone is not an issue, it is something to keep an eye on. TMJ disorder can be a chronic issue that worsens with time. Overuse of the joint can lead to further wear and tear.”
Symptoms of TMJ disorder can include pain in the jaw muscles, pain in the neck and shoulders,
chronic headaches, jaw muscle stiffness, limited movement or locking of the jaw, a bite that feels off, dizziness and vision problems, according to the TMJ Association’s website.
It also can affect the ears, resulting in ear pain, pressure, fullness and ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus.
Many patients, Dr. Kassar noted, report something called “bruxism,” a clenching or grinding of the teeth that can lead to a sore jaw, sensitive teeth and pain in the TMJ and surrounding areas.
“Many treatments include managing the pain and discomfort,” Dr. Kassar said. “If it becomes severe enough, then surgical options may be necessary to relieve it.”
According to the TMJ Association, approximately 36 million Americans suffer from TMJ and 90% of patients seeking treatment are women of childbearing age.
MCHD Dentistry has been offering Botox and Jeuveau both cosmetically and therapeutically for about two years now. It can be used therapeutically when it’s injected into the masseter muscle to relax it, which can provide relief for bruxism and therefore, TMJ disorder.
If it works, the treatment must be repeated every three to five months in order to continue getting the positive effects, Dr. Kassar said. “Further treatment may be necessary or be paired with the use of splints or physical therapy.”
In addition to the TMJ Association’s website, the National Institute of Health’s website also offers information on TMJ disorder symptoms, diagnosis and treatments as well as additional resources.
Dr. Kassar has witnessed patients experiencing relief from the condition with Botox and Jeuveau injections. He recalled one patient who had a lot of tension and soreness in the masseter and Botox was used.
At a follow-up visit, the patient reported less discomfort and the masseter was noticeably less tense, he added.
“We’re pleased that this is an option that we are able to offer our patients who are experiencing this condition,” Dr. Kassar said.
And for patients who want some help to relieve wrinkles, crow’s feet and bunny lines and “angry 11s,” that can be arranged too.
Call 304-598-5108 to make an appointment at MCHD Dentistry.