The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the joint where the upper and lower jaw meet. TMJ disorders broadly refer to several complex problems related to this joint such as acute jaw pain, locking jaw and grinding teeth (bruxism).

Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include headache, dizziness, ear pain, sounds (grinding, clicking, crunching or popping at the joint), and/or ringing of the ear. Sleep bruxism (clenching or grinding teeth) often goes unnoticed and undiagnosed until the patient’s dentist identifies worn or even broken teeth.

TMJ Treatment

Lougheed Laser prescribes Botox^® Therapeutic for TMJ treatment. The Botox^® is injected into the muscles that control the movements of the joint and causes them to relax, alleviating your TMJ symptoms. By relaxing these muscles, sleep bruxism can be avoided because the ability to grind or clench teeth is dramatically reduced.

Many people experience relief from their symptoms in two or three days, but it may take up to four weeks for you to experience the full benefit of the TMJ treatment.

If you believe you may have TMJ disorder, or know you are clenching or grinding your teeth, please contact us for a consultation. Dr. Marcia Fleming will review your symptoms and discuss whether Botox Therapeutic is appropriate for your needs.