Young woman massaging her jaw in pain and considering BOTOX for TMJ

BOTOX for TMJ

If oral appliance therapy hasn't worked to keep your temporomandibular joint disorder under control, we may recommend BOTOX® for TMJ. Dental Works in Scottsdale, AZ, uses botulinum toxin to relax facial muscles and alleviate tension in the jaw. See how Xeomin®, a product like BOTOX, can address the symptoms of TMJ disorders so patients can live pain-free lives.
Illustration of where your jaw connects to your skull

Understanding Botulinum Toxin

and How It Can Treat TMD

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect your jaw to your skull and are responsible for allowing you to open and close your mouth. When the TMJs become strained or injured, it can have a significant impact on your daily life. Activities like eating and chewing that were once second nature can become painful and difficult.

That's where botulinum toxin comes in.

Botulinum toxin is a protein that relaxes the muscle in which it's injected and alleviates tension. This can keep the strain on your temporomandibular joints to a minimum, alleviating your jaw pain and potentially reducing teeth grinding.

What Can BOTOX Injections Treat?

Our Scottsdale dental office uses BOTOX injections to treat a variety of common concerns, like:

  • TMJ disorders
  • Headaches
  • Tension
  • Jaw pain
  • Deep lines on the face
  • Finer wrinkles

The Cost of TMJ Treatment and Paying for Your Injections

Cost

When used for cosmetic purposes, our cost per unit of BOTOX is $14. When used for TMJ treatment, the cost per unit is $21. Medical treatment is more expensive because the injections are deeper and affect different muscles.

Insurance

Your insurance plan may help cover the cost of BOTOX for the treatment of TMD and headaches, but we can confirm your coverage with your provider before you commit to treatment. BOTOX treatment for TMD is still considered experimental and many insurance companies won't cover it.

Financing

Our Scottsdale office wants TMD treatment to be accessible to everyone. If you have any out-of-pocket costs, you can finance your treatment through CareCredit® or Sunbit. These third-party lenders allow patients to pay for their care in affordable installments.

The Injection Procedure What to Expect at Your Appointment

Your injectable treatment will be performed by a dentist in our Scottsdale office. Appointments are quick, and typically last 10-15 minutes.
Your injectable treatment will be performed by a dentist in our Scottsdale office. Appointments are quick, and typically last 10-15 minutes.

Anesthetic

Dr. Work may apply a topical anesthetic to the injection site to minimize any discomfort. Most patients report little to no pain during the procedure.

Injections

Your dentist will inject Xeomin into your jaw muscles. One to two injections are typically needed on each side of the jaw.

Results

Patients typically notice improvement within two weeks of their injectable treatment. Side effects also fade during this time.

Follow-Up

Recurring treatment may be recommended every three to five months to keep your TMJ disorder under control.

Making the Most
of Your Treatment

Woman receiving BOTOX in her jaw

Patients can return to their normal activities after each Xeomin appointment, but should:

  • Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the treatment area. This can cause the toxin to spread to other muscles.
  • Stay upright for four hours. Lying down increases the chances of the toxin migrating away from the jaw muscles.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 12 hours.

BOTOX FAQ

Is BOTOX treatment safe?

Yes. When administered by qualified and experienced injectors such as Drs. Terry and Mary Ann Work, BOTOX is safe. Though it's not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of TMD, BOTOX has been FDA-approved for two decades for the treatment of various other medical concerns like eyelid spasms and cosmetic concerns like wrinkles.

Are there potential risks?

While there are potential risks associated with any medical procedure, BOTOX for the treatment of TMJ disorders has a low chance of serious complications. When patients experience side effects, they typically appear in the form of injection site redness, discomfort, and bruising, which fade quickly.

Can you administer BOTOX for cosmetic purposes?

Yes. While our Scottsdale office mainly uses BOTOX injections for the treatment of TMJ disorders, we can also use them for cosmetic purposes like the treatment of droopy eyelids, wrinkles around the eyelids and mouth, and deep and fine lines across the forehead.

Welcoming Staff, State-of-the-Art Equipment

1

Dottie Henshaw

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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My husband and I have been patients of DRs Terry and Maryann Work since they first opened their office. We have witnessed how they have carefully hired great people to welcome us when we come for our appointments and then assist the DRs in our dental care. Their equipment is “ cutting edge” and both Doc’s continue to be on top with any new dental skill needed . They are often the ones giving lectures to other dentists about new procedures. 5 stars for friendliness, great skills and an office with a “ happy vibe” during visits!

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1

Trish Shelly

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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Dr. Mary Ann was thorough and caring in her approach to my oral health. She and the staff provided me with options for my oral care as well as information about the latest treatments. She and her staff were very professional and polite. Her competence and experience were evident as Dental Works provides state of the art equipment for diagnosis, treatment, and comfort.

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Dental Works

Drs. Terry Lee Work and Mary Ann Work are the dentists of choice for many families throughout Greater Scottsdale. That's because our dentists:

  • Are affiliated with ICOI and the American Dental Association
  • Provide sedation dentistry for improved comfort and accommodation of special needs
  • Offer CareCredit® and Sunbit financing
  • Provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages

To schedule your consultation, contact us online or call us at (480) 391-0099.

Contact Us Today

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