TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome) is when the temporomandibular joint, which connects the mandible to the skull, becomes inflamed. TMJ is caused by a variety of things. The most common include grinding ones teeth (Bruxism) and trauma to the jaw. It can be acute or chronic, and can vary from nothing more than minor discomfort or to life-altering pain. The most common symptoms of TMJ include biting and chewing difficulty/discomfort, facial/jaw pain, earache/headaches, a clicking or “popping” sound in the jaw, hearing loss, reduced mouth opening, migraines, and even neck and shoulder pain. There are a variety of treatments available for TMJ — some cases can be remedied by a simple mouth guard one wears at night, others may need some dental work, jaw surgery, or some people may need a variety of approaches until relief can be found. Botox is the new popular choice by many of our patients here in Temecula. Botox is a brand name for Botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin is a protein that is produced from a particular bacterium, which causes temporary muscle paralysis. By causing the affected muscles to relax, Botox can help relieve the clenching and stress that is put on the mandible by these muscles, bringing about relief. If you suffer from TMJ, Dr. Skidmore would like to offer you a free consultation to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for Botox.
