Jaw pain and difficulty with opening the mouth post-Botox

I had Botox for the first time, and got a bit too much on the mouth area. My jaw is sore, and I really try not to talk very much. Eating is okay, as long as it's soft food. I've been dealing with Bell's Palsy since January 2008, and I now look like I did when I had it. What can be causing the jaw pain and the difficulty of opening the mouth? Does Bell's Palsy have something to do with it? I'll go for a CT next week and they will go from there.

Jaw pain and difficulty with opening the mouth post-Botox
5 answers to “Jaw pain and difficulty with opening...”

A: ask your physician

Richard Baxter, MD

The use of Botox after Bell's palsy requires a lot of judgment, so hopefully your physician has some previous experience with this. It is unlikely that the Botox actually caused the Bell's palsy to flare up, it's just that there are often subtle weaknesses of the facial muscles that can become exaggerated... more

A: Consult a neurologist.

Bryan K. Chen, MD

Your case is very complex.  I would start by visiting the doctor who performed the injections if you have not already.  He or she should be informed about what is going on with you.  If he or she is unable to help you, I would suggest you consult a neurologist (a nerve/muscle specialist). ... more

A: Bell's Palsy and Botox

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Bee, Botox use in a patient with prior Bell's palsy and around the mouth takes two extra levels of skill for the practitioner.  Be sure that you are receiving the treatments from a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist.  Also, your Bell's palsy should be fully worked up and stabilized... more

A: I wouldn't mix Bell's Palsy and Botox

Steven Wallach, MD

I wouldn't mix Bell's Palsy and Botox. This should really be only done under a neurologist's guidance, if at all. In terms of your jaw or mouth pain, it is unclear if the two are related.

A: Seek neurologist's advice for jaw and mouth problems after Botox

Harold J. Kaplan, MD

It's not clear why you received the Botox. Was it to address the Bell's palsy or was it to address something cosmetic and unrelated? I have only heard of these symtpoms when a patient was not injected properly for TMJ in the masseter muscle. Her symptoms lasted beyond 4 months. Because your situation may be... more

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