BOTOX® Injections for TMD and Bruxism (Grinding of Teeth)

Home/BOTOX® Injections and Dermal Fillers/BOTOX® Injections for TMD and Bruxism (Grinding of Teeth)

New treatment techniques for bruxism (clenching and grinding) and TMJ Disorder, also referred to as TMD, have made it possible for individuals to effectively reduce symptoms of these common conditions with immediate and long-lasting results. Scottsdale Smile Center now offers botulinum toxin therapy (BOTOX® and XEOMIN®), which are known to successfully relieve bruxism and a variety of TMJ Disorder symptoms for many patients. Dr. Brandon Ryff, Dr. Jonathan Coombs, Dr. Jared Mayer, Dr. Don Chiappetti, and Dr. Reed Chiappetti have been extensively trained to perform these advanced treatments, which can be conveniently performed right here at our practice. For patients who are interested in the cosmetic applications of BOTOX® and XEOMIN® injections, Dr. Ryff, Dr. Coombs, Dr. Mayer, Dr. Don Chiappetti, and Dr. Reed Chiappetti are also certified by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics to administer these treatments for facial rejuvenation. Please visit our BOTOX® Cosmetic and XEOMIN® page for additional information on how these treatments can be utilized as an effective non-surgical aesthetic enhancement option.

If you have questions, or if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk more about your options, please contact Scottsdale Smile Center today.

What Are BOTOX® and XEOMIN®?

BOTOX® and XEOMIN® are injectable solutions composed of a purified form of a protein called botulinum toxin type A. This protein works by relaxing overactive muscles surrounding the temporomandibular joint, which can diminish many symptoms associated with TMD. Over time, like any other muscle that is no longer as active, the hyperactive muscles involved reduce to a more appropriate size. This effect is tremendously helpful to mitigate damage to teeth caused by persistent clenching and grinding.

While BOTOX® and XEOMIN® are different brands, they are both botulinum toxin-based injectables that essentially serve the same function and are identical in strength and effectiveness. Our experienced dentist can meet with you for an initial consultation to discuss your specific needs and goals. Our doctor will perform a comprehensive examination and help you determine whether you are a candidate for this therapy. If so, our doctor will create a customized treatment plan designed to reduce your symptoms and improve your day-to-day life.

What Are the Benefits of Botulinum Toxin Injections for Bruxism and TMJ Disorder?

Botox CosmeticBotulinum toxin injections such as BOTOX® and XEOMIN® offer a variety of benefits for patients with TMD and bruxism. These treatments are designed to help reduce associated symptoms such as:

  • Jaw pain
  • Jaw popping or clicking
  • Headaches
  • Problems with chewing
  • Sensitive teeth often caused by clenching and grinding
  • Additional damage to teeth caused by bruxism
  • Excess wear and tear of the TMJ
  • And others

Botulinum toxin injections can be extremely effective, and less invasive, treatments for patients affected by a range of common concerns.

What Is the Procedure Like?

Injectable procedures for TMD and bruxism can be performed right here at Scottsdale Smile Center, and are often completed in about 30 minutes or less. Dr. Ryff, Dr. Coombs, Dr. Mayer, Dr. Chiappetti, or Dr. Reed will delicately and precisely inject the botulinum toxin solution into the targeted muscles with an extremely fine needle. The treatment areas can be anesthetized with a topical solution to reduce discomfort during the injections. About two weeks after the initial injections, patients will come back to our office for a follow-up appointment to monitor the progress. As it is virtually impossible to predict exactly how the muscle will respond for each individual’s unique facial anatomy, some patients may need an additional “enhancement” injection at this time to ensure that the solution is providing the best possible relief from TMJ Disorder symptoms.

As with any injection, it is possible that some bruising could occur at the injection site; but generally, most patients experience zero complications or side effects and are pleasantly surprised to see that it doesn’t hurt! There is no recovery period after receiving this treatment and most patients return to their normal routine right away.

What Can I Expect from the Results?

For most patients, the results from BOTOX® or XEOMIN® injections last approximately 90 days. Follow-up injections can help maintain the effects once they begin to fade. Our doctors have found that, with subsequent treatments, many patients need less of the solution and begin to experience results that last for longer periods of time since the muscles are basically being re-conditioned to reduce overactivity. In fact, we find that patients with enlarged chewing muscles will benefit from, on average, about 20% reduction in the size of these overly powerful muscles. Patients report normal function and are unanimously satisfied with the results.

For more information on botulinum toxin injectable solutions for TMJ Disorder and bruxism, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Contact Scottsdale Smile Center for a Consultation

Would you like to learn more about our advanced injectable treatments? Please contact Scottsdale Smile Center for more information, or to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.

*In accordance with Arizona state regulations, injectable treatments performed for cosmetic enhancement at a dental practice must be associated with a dental treatment plan and the individual undergoing the treatment must be a dental patient of record. Please contact our practice with any questions regarding this stipulation.

man in white sweater