Who is the most qualified to administer botox for TMJ?

Question

My dentist suggested I may benefit from Botox to relax my jaw muscles to prevent night-time clenching that is wearing away my molars and changing my bite. I asked a different dentist if he thinks this would help that condition, and he was adamant that it does not work. What is your opinion on the effectiveness of botox for night grinding/clenching and, who is most qualified to administer botox for this reason? Dentist? Oculofacial plastic surgeon? Dermatologist? Thank you.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

BTX to the masseter muscles may lead to jawline slimming, and significant relief of TMJ pain related to grinding. We have found that 50-100 units in total are necessary to provide relief, and treatments may need to be repeated every 3-4 months in some people. Thank you. Dr Joseph

Erin Smith, MD · Answer

Neuromodulators, one of which is Botox, may provide some benefit for clenching and or grinding teeth. It is recommended you receive injections from someone with understanding of facial anatomy and training on treatment of the muscles of mastication.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. Masseter botox to alleviate TMJ disorders is well-documented and can provide patients significant pain relief. I would seek out a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in treatment to get the best functional and aesthetic improvement.

Chelsea Diamond, DMD · Answer

Botox is not a cure for clenching, but it can effectively control the uncomfortable symptoms associated with clenching and grinding. Botox injections have been proven to be an ideal treatment option for targeting and treating excessive muscle activity and spasticity. Studies have shown that botox can reduce the frequency of clenching episodes and the amount of force you apply to your teeth, thus protecting teeth at night. Dentist, Oculofacial, plastic surgeons, and dermatologists who have taken a botox certification course are qualified to administer botox for this reason.

Kurt Kuhlman, DO · Answer

Botox works well for TMJ/bruxism and insurance will frequently pay for it to be done. The specific specialty of the physician treating you does not matter. What matters is the specific experience of the physician doing this procedure.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

We treat many patients in our practice with Botox for these concerns. Many of our dental colleagues who do not inject botox will refer patients to our clinic for this procedure. Most patients are extremely happy with the results. Seek out a provider who has experience injecting the masseter muscles.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

The treatment of teeth grinding with Botox is one of the most gratifying uses of Botox and works extremely well. the dentist who told you it doesn't work simply does not know how to do it. see a board certified dermatologist

Mona Stone, DDS - Account Suspended · Answer

I am an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who treats many patients for TMJ and myfacial pain. The most qualified person is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon; This is becauase not only some patients are non surgical cases, some are. The only spcecialty that truly can operate on the TMJ for TMJ issues is an OMFS

Who is the most qualified to administer botox for TMJ?

Answers (8)

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