Scottsdale Smile Center Now Offers BOTOX® to Treat TMJ Disorder
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Brandon Ryff is now a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics and is certified to perform BOTOX® injections and dermal filler treatments! Commonly used for cosmetic purposes, BOTOX® is a purified protein form of botulinum toxin, a solution that can also effectively treat the root cause of TMJ Disorder (also referred to as TMD). TMJ Disorder is a condition related to problems with the temporomandibular joint that connects the jaw to the skull. Often triggered by a misaligned bite, persistent teeth grinding, or simply overuse of the temporomandibular joint, TMD and overactive musculature along the joint can lead to a number of symptoms that negatively affect everyday life. These may include:
- Jaw and/or lower facial pain
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Difficulty chewing
- Headaches
- Neck, back, and shoulder discomfort
- Numbness in the arms and/or fingers
When strategically administered around the jaw and head, botulinum toxin injections work to temporarily relax hyperactive muscles in targeted areas, providing significant relief from the effects of TMD. The results of treatment generally last three months or more, so routine follow-up injections are recommended to maintain long-term relief. With that in mind, Dr. Ryff says many patients experience longer-lasting results with subsequent treatments, and often need less BOTOX® during these follow-up procedures since the muscles are essentially being retrained to reduce hyperactivity.
Botulinum toxin treatments (including brands such as BOTOX® and XEOMIN®) can be utilized for TMJ Disorder treatment, dental aesthetic enhancement, and can even be effective for some patients experiencing a “gummy smile.”
BOTOX® may not be the most effective solution for everyone suffering from TMJ Disorder, which is why seeking the expertise of a dentist who has received advanced training and certification in performing botulinum toxin injections is critical. During a consultation at Scottsdale Smile Center, Dr. Ryff can thoroughly assess your symptoms to determine the proper course of action. Based on your unique needs, he can administer the injections with an optimal degree of safety and precision, or he can recommend another treatment for TMJ Disorder that is better suited to your specific case.
For more information about TMD treatment, or if you are interested in scheduling an appointment at our office, please don’t hesitate to contact Scottsdale Smile Center today.