Are Botox injections for masseter clenching covered by insurance? And which type of doctor do I see for treatment?

Botox and Dysport can be extremely effective for treating myofascial pain associated with TMJ dysfunction.This is typically not covered by medical insurance.  You can call your insurance company to verify -- we all know how easy of a phone call that is ;)Usually a copy of your insurance plan benefits will have a section listing exclusions.  What I have seen is that there is usually a very specific statement excluding any TMJ treatments.As far as who to see for these treatments you have several good options.  Facial plastic surgeons such as myself usually have a background in ear, nose, and throat surgery which includes a great deal of patients with TMJ pain seen during our training.  Oral surgeons of course deal with this problem in even greater depth.  General (full body) plastic surgeons should also have the proper training and understanding of anatomy to competently treat the issue as well.

Botox for the masseters works great for TMJ pain, clenching and it also helps with jawline slimming for a more heart shaped lower face. For your injections you would need to see a board certified plastic surgeon or a Registered nurse working under a reputable surgeon. Here in Canada, these injections are not covered by insurance companies. 

I can't speak to insurance coverage. Yes, Botox can be used to improve masseter clenching. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. However, a maxillofacial surgeon would be best for internal muscle treatment. Best, Dr. Emer

Typically, botox for masseters is not covered by insurance.  As with any aesthetic procedures, I recommend consulting with a board-certified and experienced cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Most likely insurance will not cover the cost of masseter injection and asking them sets up a red flag so they will refuse.  as to whom to see it is best to see a board certified dermatologist with experience in the use of Botox

Thank you for your question.  The best way to find out the answer is to call your insurance company and see if it's a covered benefit.  If it is, then find a doctor (plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon, most likely) in your insurance network to perform the treatments.Best,Dr. Dan KrochmalMAE Plastic SurgeryNorthbrook, IL

Botox works great for this. It will not only stop the clinching but it will decrease the size of those muscles as well so be sure to take that into consideration if you have one side that is larger than the other or in case you need symmetric injections. As far as your insurance is concerned I would talk to a board-certified plastic or ENT surgeon  Who does this kind of facial work and see if they have had any luck with your insurance company. You could always call your insurance company directly as well. Best of luck! 

 Botox is an excellent product for treating teeth clenching. In most instances it is not covered by insurance but you can find out further from your insurance company. The majority of doctors use botox for masseter injections are either plastic surgeons or dermatologist, but I'm sure that there are some dentist who use it as well. Good luck from New York City

Thank you for your question heatherk74. I understand your concern. Botox
is a purified protein used to address wrinkles associated with facial
expression. Botox can be placed in the masseter muscle to contour the lower face and/or help with TMJ pain associated with grinding or clenching the teeth. In general Botox treatments are not covered by insurance. But it would be a good idea to check with your particular insurance plan. Cosmetic physicians, neurologists, and dentists with training in Botox are qualified to perform such treatments. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Im afraid that these injections are not normally covered. However, this is great way to treat this condition, and can also help to treat over development of the muscles( masseteric hypertrophy)