How effective is Botox for TMJ?

Question

Hi I’m 25 and I started having TMJ symptoms about 2 years ago. I attended some physical therapy and that helped but I still get knots and jaw pain occasionally. I’m curious about how effective Botox can be for tmj.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your experience—jaw tension and TMJ discomfort can be really frustrating, especially when physical therapy helps but doesn’t fully resolve the symptoms.
Botox can be effective for TMJ-related muscle pain because it works by relaxing the overactive muscles responsible for clenching or grinding, particularly the masseter and sometimes the temporalis muscles. Many patients notice a reduction in jaw tightness, pain, and even teeth grinding after treatment. Results typically start within a few days to two weeks, and the effect usually lasts around 3–4 months.
It’s important to keep in mind that Botox addresses the muscle component of TMJ discomfort, not underlying joint issues. For some people, it’s best used in combination with other therapies—like physical therapy, bite guards, or stress management—for more comprehensive relief.
Because everyone’s anatomy and symptoms are a little different, the degree of improvement can vary. Some people experience significant relief, while others may notice more modest changes.
If you’d like, I can explain how dosing and placement are typically approached for TMJ so you can understand what to expect in terms of results and recovery.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

If your TMJ is due to muscle spasm, then Botox can be very effective. Be sure to see an expert injector for consultation.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox, Dysport and equivalent neuromodulators that relax the masseter muscle are quite effective at reducing the tension, pain and discomfort associated with temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The masseter is one of four muscles involved in chewing, and excess force exerted by the muscles exacerbates the issues caused by a dysfunctional joint. Treating the masseter with Botox will reduce this force, and thus effectively reduce the severity of symptoms.

David Yew, MD · Answer

Botox is very effective for TMJ and can help relax the jaw muscles and temporalis muscles.  Its important to find an experienced provider that can do both lower jaw muscles and the temples.   Please see attached videos for more information.   If it's helpful - please subscribe and leave a comment.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

In our experience, people will get the most benefit when they have botox injected into their masseter muscles. Conservative therapy for TMJ would be a bite guard made by your dentist. I hope this is helpful. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Many patients report improvement in TMJ symptoms after Botox injections.  The treatment is done in the office with full effect after two weeks.  The product benefits will gradually fade over three to four months.  See an expert injector near you for treatment.

Glenn Murray, MBBS · Answer

Hi,

Botox works by temporarily relaxing the masseter and temporalis muscles—the primary muscles involved in chewing. This relaxation can alleviate:
- Jaw muscle pain: Reduces discomfort from clenching or grinding
- Headaches: Decreases the frequency and intensity of tension-type headaches
- Lockjaw: Improves jaw mobility in cases of limited mouth opening.
The effects of Botox for TMJ typically last between 3 to 6 months, depending on individual factors such as muscle activity and stress levels. Many patients notice improvement within a few days, with full relief appearing around two weeks after treatment.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

I have used both Botox & Dysport successfully for many years now for TMJ symptoms. Results are variable, as is dosing, so best to have your dermatologist examine your TMJ muscle strength & size to determine optimal dosing. Most people find they have much less pain and headaches, and improved dentition. Duration of effect can be 3-6 months or so.

Sheryl D. Clark, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello Mothworm:

How effective? Very. I have a large group of patients who come every 6 to 12 months to banish the pain and tooth damage, and for some to slim a squarish face from masseter hypertrophy as well. They tell me nothing else had worked in the past.

All the best from New York City, 
Sheryl Clark MD, FAAD

Kurt Kuhlman, DO · Answer

Botox is decent at improving TMJ symptoms. Unfortunately, insurance will not pay for Botox to treat TMJ. Insurance will usually pay for Botox to treat Bruxism (grinding of teeth) and/or oral mandibular dystonia (increased muscle tone) of the masseter and temporals muscles. A typical dose is 40 units in each masseter muscle and 10 units in each temporalis muscle. The improvement in jaw pain and muscle tone last about 3 to 4 months.

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