TMJ disorder, brusxism, and migraines are painful conditions that can occur at various points in life. Located on both sides of the jaw, the temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) functions while talking, eating, swallowing, and during other everyday activities. If the TMJ becomes displaced or is overworked through bruxing (teeth grinding), a person may suffer severe tension headaches, as well as pain in the jaw or teeth.
While sometimes these conditions clear up on their own, if they persist it is important for your quality of life, as well as for the health of your teeth to have them evaluated. There are several ways these conditions can be treated. At our office we can make customized removable applicances that can be worn at night or during the day to help relieve bruxism (grinding) and jaw pain. We can also treat specific painful areas with trigger point injections. Finally, at our office we offer several different injections of medications, such as Botox®. Botox® has been approved by the FDA for painful conditions potentially related to TMJ disorder, such as migraines. Botox® relieves jaw tension by relaxing the muscles that engage in the powerful, often unconscious movement of the jaw that produces headaches and pain. Botox® treatment for TMJ disorders and migraines is usually quick, straightforward, and effective. Most patients experience noticeable improvement within a few days.