"temporomandibular joint disorder"
Neuromodulators are commonly used as a treatment for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and teeth grinding (bruxism). These conditions can cause jaw pain, tension, and teeth grinding during sleep. By injecting botulinum toxin type A into the masseters (jaw muscles), the treatment helps relax and reduce muscle activity. This in turn alleviates the symptoms associated with TMJ and grinding, such as pain in the jaw and neck, and damage to the teeth. The procedure is typically quick, painless and requires no downtime. The treatment starts to kick in after 2-3 days, takes full effect in 7-14 days, and lasts several months in most patients.
What to expect?
During the treatment, Dr Grunau will assess your masseters, and mark the injection points on your skin. The neurotoxin is injected into the masseter muscles, causing them to relax. This helps alleviate symptoms related to teeth grinding or clenching. The procedure is minimally invasive and requires no downtime. Results gradually become noticeable within 7-14 days, and the effects usually last for several months.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorders can cause pain and dysfunction in this joint.
Bruxism is a condition characterized by the grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep. It can lead to dental and health issues.
Neuromodulators can be used to treat TMJ disorders and bruxism by relaxing the muscles responsible for jaw clenching and grinding. This can alleviate pain and reduce the intensity of teeth grinding.
The neuromodulator is injected directly into the jaw muscles responsible for clenching and grinding.
When administered by a trained and qualified healthcare professional, neurotoxin injections for TMJ and bruxism are generally considered safe.
Common side effects can include tiny marks on the skin at the site of injection, mild pain or swelling/bruising at the injection site. These side effects resolve after a few days.
Rare but more significant side effects include temporary weakness in nearby muscles which may affect the symmetry of the smile, if an unintended muscle is targeted by the injection. It is very important to choose a provider who knows facial anatomy, and who has the proper training and technique. Serious side effects are rare but can occur.
Tiny marks in the skin (smaller than a tiny pin prick) are common, and usually disappear within 15 minutes after the treatment is done. Very small bruises at the injection site are rare, and generally disappear after 3-4 days. The best way to treat tenderness, swelling and bruising is with ice or cool packs. Tylenol may be taken if needed.
If the smile muscle is inadvertently affected, the other side may be treated to create smile symmetry. The effects will wear off when the neurotoxin wears off, after a few months.
The effects of Botox for TMJ and bruxism are temporary and typically last for 3-6 months. Follow-up injections may be necessary to maintain the results.
Botox can provide relief from TMJ pain and reduce the intensity of teeth grinding for many individuals. However, its effectiveness can vary from person to person.
You should not have neurotoxin injections if you:
- Are pregnant or nursing.
- Are allergic to albumin.
- Had an allergic reaction to any other botulinum toxin product.
- Have an infection, skin condition, or muscle weakness at the planned injection site(s).
- Have a disease that affects your muscles and nerves, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease), myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome, or Parkinson’s.
Neuromodulator injections can help manage the symptoms of TMJ disorders and bruxism, but the treatment does not provide a permanent cure.
Neuromodulator treatment is designed to selectively relax specific jaw muscles, so it should not affect your ability to eat or speak. The procedure selectively targets the masseter muscles involved in clenching and grinding, not those necessary for essential jaw functions.
Your initial consultation with Dr. Esther Grunau is complimentary.
The cost of Cosmetic Neuromodulator treatment is $10/unit.
The number of units required to treat will vary, depending on the size and strength of the masseter muscle.
MSP (BC Healthcare) does not cover the cost of this treatment. Some extended health insurance policies may cover the cost. Please consult with your insurance provider to check if the cost of your treatment will be reimbursed.