Not Just for Beauty: Why to Talk to Your Dentist About Botox

When Botox comes up in casual conversation, most people picture plastic surgery and the trademark “paralyzed face” we’ve come to associate with Botox.  For years, small doses of Botox have been used to soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What most people don’t know, is that there’s evidence to suggest that Botox injections have a practical application for dental and facial pain, as well.  In fact, today, more than 1 in 6 dentists offer Botox injections to their patients to treat this pain.  Here’s why.

Botox, the Paralytic

The reason Botox is so beloved in cosmetic procedures is because of its ability to paralyze smaller muscles and the sections of the overlying skin.  To the casual observer, this reduces the outward appearance of wrinkles.  This same theory applies to patients with chronic muscle-clenching conditions in the jaw – and the pain associated with clenching or grinding. Botox, injected into jaw muscles, can either limit the muscle’s hyperactivity or even eliminate the activity altogether.  This option is increasingly bringing relief to sufferers of chronic conditions like TMJ and bruxism (tooth grinding).

TMJ

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a condition that impacts as much as 80 percent of dental patients to varying degrees.  TMJ is one of a number of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) – an umbrella term that applies to any kind of pain in the jaw and facial muscles.  TMJ can arise for various reasons.  Those with acute TMJ claim that their pain starts at one or two central locations, then radiates outward.

Evidence suggests that injecting Botox directly into these so-called trigger points can go a long way toward alleviating pain.  In fact, some research indicates Botox can relieve pain for those unaffected by traditional treatments, or those not wanting to take pain medication on a long term basis.

Bruxism

Another umbrella term, bruxism refers to the continual clenching of the jaw and grinding of your teeth.  Studies have shown that an injection of Botox into the jaw may alleviate or correct these tendencies.  But it’s essential to choose a dental expert with experience working with Botox. Injecting the correct amount of Botox is critical for treating the issue.  Too little will have no effect; too much could paralyze the part of the jaw completely for an extended period.

Orthodontia

Many dentists discount the role of facial muscles in orthodontia.  As braces and other appliances correct the jaw and teeth, specific facial muscles must work to solidify these changes.  Without proper support from musculature, orthodontic results may begin to reverse after appliances are removed.  A dose of Botox may help to stop overactive or counterproductive facial muscles from undercutting the success of orthodontic work – especially right after appliances are removed, before changes have had a chance to set.

See if Botox is Right for You

At Levenson Periodontal Associates, we’re able to help our patients explore the possibilities of Botox treatments for facial pain and discomfort.  Of course, that’s far from the only service we provide.  We provide patients with complete periodontal services (from teeth cleaning to dental implant placement) with the goal of assuring your optimal dental health.   Contact us today  to learn more about how Botox fits into the realm of oral health.