29
Aug
How Botox Relieves Jaw Pain and Improves Quality of Life
Sleep is supposed to be a time for the body and mind to rest and rejuvenate. However, for patients with bruxism—the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth—this period can be anything but peaceful. Bruxism causes sleep disruptions, constant headaches, jaw pain, tooth damage, and other undesirable symptoms.
Have you tried to overcome bruxism without success? It’s time to schedule an appointment with Red Hill Dental Practice. Dr Chris Wooldridge and his team can treat bruxism with non-invasive and fast-acting Botox. Yes, you heard that right—Botox! While this product is famous for smoothing out wrinkles, fine lines, and other aging signs, it’s effective in treating bruxism.
Why should I be worried about bruxism?
Bruxism happens at night when sleeping, so many sufferers aren’t aware of it. However, this doesn’t mean this progressive condition doesn’t cause damage. Bruxism exerts significant forces on your dental structures, causing several unpleasant symptoms.
Some include:
- Tension headaches
- Jaw soreness
- Dental damage, including cracked, eroded, and flattened enamel
- Facial pain
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Gum recession and periodontal disease
Severe bruxism causes extensive dental damage, warranting tooth fillings, crowns, root canals, and even dental implants for teeth damaged beyond repair. Bruxism must be treated as soon as possible to halt its cycle of destruction.
How does Botox for bruxism work?
Botox is a natural neuromodulator approved by the FDA to treat headaches, migraines, bruxism, and other conditions. When injected into the overactive jaw muscles, it soothes any soreness and tension caused by tooth grinding. Botox doesn’t affect the muscles themselves. It interferes with the communication between the nerves and muscles. This relaxes the muscles but still maintains the primary function of speaking, chewing, and grinding food.
What should I expect from the bruxism treatment?
Bruxism treatment with Botox is a fast and painless procedure. The procedure starts with a consultation, where the doctor isolates the troublesome jaw muscles. Then, we’ll inject the Botox product into the jaw muscles using a super-thin needle. Don’t worry! The injections are painless because we numb the injection site with topical anesthesia.
Your treatment lasts 20-30 minutes. You’ll also experience minimal side effects, allowing you to return to your everyday life right after treatment. Many patients experience mild swelling, bruising, and pain at the treatment sites, which are easily manageable with a cold compress. However, you should avoid massaging the area.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (03) 5907 5942 | Existing Patients: (03) 5989 2144
When should I experience relief?
You’ll experience jaw pain relief after 2-3 days, but full effects will be after two weeks. Unfortunately, Botox treatment isn’t permanent. Since your body metabolizes the product, you’ll need retreatment every 3-4 months, although this varies from patient to patient.
What are the benefits of Botox in bruxism treatment?
Botox offers numerous benefits, whether used for clinical or cosmetic purposes.
Some include:
- Fast and painless treatment
- It can complement other treatments
- Minimally invasive
- It’s an effective treatment
- Minimal downtime
- It can be reversed
Do you need bruxism treatment?
Bruxism may not seem like a big deal, but it can cause severe damage if left unaddressed. If you are in Red Hill, Victoria, don’t let bruxism ruin your quality of life. Call (03) 5907 5942 to schedule an appointment with Red Hill Dental Practice for Botox treatment.