Botox for TMJ in San Francisco, CA

Botox is a medication that is derived from botulinum toxin. This medication is useful in medical treatments to reduce the size of enlarged glands, treat chronic migraines, and cosmetically remove wrinkles in skin. Botox can also reduce muscle stiffness in TMJ patients

Botox is used to treat a variety of other dental problems, including:

- Overly gummy smiles

- Excessive tooth grinding

- Mouth sores

- Crooked or misaligned teeth

- Teeth that protrude or stick out too far

- Uneven gum lines

- An overly wide smile

How does Botox work?

Botox is a muscle relaxer that works by blocking nerve impulses to muscles. When injected into a muscle, Botox prevents nerve impulses from causing muscles to contract. However, Botox only paralyzes the muscles where it is injected, causing relief from TMJ. Botox does not have an effect on surrounding muscle groups.

During a dental treatment that involves the use of Botox, a dentist can apply a topical anesthetic to numb the treatment area. When combined with a local anesthetic, botox injections are relatively painless.

What Are the Aftercare Steps for Recovery?

Ice

We recommend that you apply an ice pack to the treated area for the first 24 hours after your procedure. This helps to reduce inflammation and prevent swelling from occurring.

No rubbing

When you come in for your Botox dental treatment, your dental team will give you specific instructions to follow to ensure a proper recovery. One of the most common instructions is to avoid rubbing your face hard, especially in the area where you received Botox injections.

No sucking

You should avoid chewing gum, especially if you are only a couple of days past your treatment. Try chewing on the other side of your mouth or on one of your cheeks. Sucking or chewing on your mouth could disturb your Botox treatment.

No smoking

Smoking is off-limits after Botox injections. In fact, you’ll need to stop smoking for 3-4 weeks before your procedure. This will give your skin time to recover and reduce the risk of infection or an adverse reaction.

You may schedule a consultation with our Dentist in San Francisco CA by calling us at (650) 794-0203 or reaching us through an online query. We’re always happy to help.