Botox for TMJ Made Jaw Worse

I have had a 20 year + TMJ issue. I got 20 ccs of botox on each side about 6 weeks ago. It helped, but I still had a dull pain, so the doctor had added 12 or 8 cc's on each side. One week after I started having shooting pains and feel like my jaw is glued shut, making it painful to talk, chew, smile or laugh. I have never had this sensation before and don't know why I would feel worse than I did before I got the initial botox. The doctor's office suggested to add MORE. Help?

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jaw TMJ

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by jula in beverly hills

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Botulinum Toxin (Dysport or Botox) for TMJ disorder

I would obtain a second opinion as this is a highly specialized and off-label use of Botox. There are several muscles of mastication and they work in a highly coordinated fashion. Weakening of one set of muscles could cause and imbalance resulting in pain.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

33 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Botox for TMJ

You should see your doctor for an evaluation. You unfortunately have a longstandimng priblem and may need a second opinion with a tNJ expert who does Botox.