TMJ for Botox: I got 60 Units and don’t see any difference. Do I need more? (photos)

Question

My jaw has been popping and making a noise, like if I’m eating ice. My dentist recommended 60 units of Botox to help relax my temporal muscles. When I eat I hear my jaw popping still. Do I need more Botox or a different procedure? I went to 3 different orthodontist and they all say there’s nothing that can be done ONLY BOTOX.

David Yew, MD · Answer

The popping sound or clicking is just a sound. Like cracking your knuckles. It's a joint and therefore anyone can create a sound if they move the joint a certain way. It does not indicate any dysfunction or problem. Just stop making the sound on purpose. If it happens - just ignore it. 
Regarding how many units you received - it should be based upon the size of the muscle. If injectors are just learning to do this - they may often underdose. So make sure you ask how experienced they are with doing this. In our practice - we measure the size of the masseters and have a protocol of units depending on the size. Please see the video link for more detailed information regarding Botox and TMJ.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If it has been two weeks or more since your treatment I encourage you to return to your injector for an evaluation.  Together you can decide if more product would be helpful.  If it has not yet been two weeks, give it a little more time as it may not have reached peak effect yet.

Kurt Kuhlman, DO · Answer

The primary muscle injected for TMJ is the masseter muscle, usually 20 units per side, The temporals muscles can also be injected too

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TMJ for Botox: I got 60 Units and don’t see any difference. Do I need more? (photos)

Answers (3)

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