Orofacial Wellness & TMJ Treatment | Burlingame, California

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the most complex joint in the human body, controlling your ability to eat, speak, swallow, and yawn. It includes the lower jaw, the skull’s temporal bone, and a complex network of muscles and ligaments that allow the jaw to move side to side, up and down, and forward and back. When any of these structures is out of alignment or inflamed, a cascade of problems can occur, including difficulty with movement, pain, and joint immobility.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders affect the function of the temporomandibular joint and the surrounding ligaments and muscles. These conditions can lead to jaw pain, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, facial pain, and wear and tear on the joint. It can be difficult to determine the cause of TMJ disorders, but it is essential to determine the cause in order to treat the symptoms and bring you relief.

How We Treat TMJ Disorders & Orofacial Pain

Finding relief from orofacial pain, headaches, and TMJ disorders starts with a thorough and personalized approach to diagnosis. Using detailed evaluations like digital imaging, muscle assessments, and bite analysis, we take the time to understand the root cause of your discomfort.

If overactive jaw muscles or joint pain are contributing to your symptoms, we offer gentle, effective treatments such as Botox injections to relax tense muscles and ease pain. For added support, custom splint therapy can help stabilize the jaw, prevent grinding, and relieve unnecessary strain. Our goal is to provide precise, compassionate care that helps you feel comfortable, balanced, and free from persistent pain.

Botox® for TMJ & Facial Pain Relief

Botox injections offer a ray of hope for those suffering from TMJ disorder. By gently alleviating muscle tightness around the TMJ, these injections can bring significant relief. Once the tension is relieved and the muscles can relax, the joint can move more freely. Unconscious, repetitive motions such as clenching or grinding are alleviated. The newly relaxed muscles and ligaments put less stress on the joint, reducing or eliminating pain for several months.

The Integrative Approach to Orofacial Wellness

At Serenity Dental & Orofacial Wellness, we understand that orofacial pain is often complex, with multiple contributing factors. While Botox® injections can provide significant pain relief, they may not address the root cause of the problem, whether it is stress-related teeth grinding, a misalignment of the jaw, or another issue. We take a comprehensive approach to orofacial wellness, working with our patients to identify and address these causes, and may recommend additional treatments in conjunction with Botox to eliminate the cause while treating the pain.

We work with our patients to determine what these causes are and may recommend additional treatments in conjunction with Botox to eliminate the cause while treating the pain. Treatments we may recommend may include:

• Custom splint therapy can help stabilize the jaw, prevent grinding, and relieve unnecessary strain.
• Myofascial therapy can help correct muscle imbalances.
• Physical therapy can relax and strengthen muscles.
• Stress management techniques can help patients minimize teeth clenching or grinding and help patients cope with stressors that may contribute to TMJ Disorder.

Our goal is to provide precise, compassionate care that helps you feel comfortable, balanced, and free from persistent pain.

FAQs About TMJ & Orofacial Wellness

How do I know if I have a TMJ disorder?

Multiple symptoms could indicate a TMJ disorder, including:

• Jaw pain or stiffness, especially in the morning
• Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
• Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
• Difficulty or pain when chewing
• Clicking, grinding, or popping when you move your jaw
• A misaligned bite
• Persistent jaw or neck pain
• Chronic headaches or migraines
• Ringing in your ears or chronic earaches
• Chronic facial pain, particularly around the eyes or cheeks
• Loose or worn teeth, especially on one side

If you have any of these symptoms for two or more weeks, please schedule an appointment to be evaluated by us for TMJ Disorder.

Is Botox safe for TMJ treatment?

Yes, Botox injections are safe for TMJ treatment. Administered in our office, they are generally well received with only mild, temporary side effects such as redness or mild discomfort at the injection site. You may have mild bruising or swelling that will fade within a few hours. In rare cases, you may experience temporary muscle weakness. We will review the benefits and risks at your appointment, ensuring you feel secure and confident in your treatment. 

How long does Botox last for TMJ?

Botox’s effects on TMJ disorder usually last four to six months. With repeated treatment, the effects tend to last longer. When combined with other treatments, such as myofascial therapy or a custom splint, Botox is even more effective.

Will my insurance cover TMJ treatment?

It depends on your insurance carrier and whether your TMJ treatment with Botox is considered medically necessary. This may hinge on whether your TMJ disorder has responded to other treatments, whether it is associated with bruxism, whether it is associated with myofascial pain syndrome and other factors. We will work with you to get pre-approval from your insurer whenever possible to get the relief you deserve with the maximum allowable coverage.

If you are experiencing TMJ disorder symptoms, there is no need to continue suffering. Our integrative approach can resolve the symptoms and address the causes of your pain for effective, long-lasting relief. Contact our office at Serenity Dental & Orofacial Wellness Phone Number (650) 697-1711 to schedule an evaluation and treatment plan.