Tooth Be Told

It is my hope that this column will be another way to connect to you and give you insight into my whole-body approach to health and wellness. My perspective obviously starts with me looking in your mouth, but I’d like to show you the value of how your mouth is the gateway to your body via anecdotal accounts of varying topics.

This week’s edition of Tooth Be Told discusses Botox, otherwise known as Botulinum toxin or botulinum neurotoxin. Specifically, the neurotoxin protein is an acetylcholine release inhibitor and a neuromuscular blocking agent and used commercially for medical and cosmetic purposes. There are seven main types of botulinum toxin, only two of which are capable of causing disease in humans and are also used commercially and medically.

Temporomandibular myofascial pain has been treated with botulinum toxin injections in recent decades and has shown significant efficacy. In patients who show symptoms of pain from nighttime grinding such as muscle and jaw soreness or headaches, the use of the toxin in a short appointment visit and minimal recovery time, show improvement in pain. Typically, within three to seven days after the injection, we have seen discomfort or tension relief, but optimal results are noticeable within two weeks. The body metabolizes the Botox within three to six months and additional treatments may be needed to maintain the benefits.

Unlike Botox used in the popular places in common cosmetic places like the forehead or lips in which you get smooth lines or the “freeze,” Botox injections in your jaw muscles only target the overactive muscles responsible for clenching and grinding. It does not compromise your ability to move your jaw or speak. Overall, the results show pain reduction, improved jaw function, and a reduction of clenching and grinding habits, which aid in quality of life and a temporary relief of pain.

What I want you to know is that Botox is not just for the high maintenance Hollywood looks and there shouldn’t be a stigma around the treatment. Whether the treatment is for preventative aging or treatment of pain, the use and efficacy of Botulinum is well studied and when administered by a well-trained clinician, safe, and managed with your health at the forefront.