Bruxism is the unintentional clenching and grinding of teeth, and can lead to dental issues and discomfort including jaw clicking, tension, headaches and cracking of teeth. It often occurs during sleep or subconsciously during the day. It can also contribute to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. Effective treatments include reducing symptoms, preventing dental damage and addressing underlying causes. Customised splints are recommended to protect teeth and stress management techniques. Botulinum toxin injections into the masseter muscle is effective in reducing the size of the muscle, relaxing it and reducing the intensity of grinding and clenching.
The temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction (also referred to as TMJ disorder or TMD) is a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint (jaw joint) and the surrounding muscles that control movement of the jaw.
The TMJ is hinge like joint that connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull and assists in chewing, speaking, breathing and swallowing. Because it is a highly flexible joint, it is susceptible to disorders such as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) or bruxism (teeth grinding).
Symptoms of TMD or Bruxism (teeth grinding) include:
We invite patients to schedule an in-person consultation with Dr Parvin Khinda (a.k.a Dr PK) at her cosmetic practice in South Melbourne to discuss TMJ treatment options, including the substance used in anti-wrinkle injections, at Kaya Cosmedica. Dr PK and her staff are committed to remaining at the forefront of aesthetic innovations, safety standards, and products.
There can be various causes and contributing factors which often co-occur. These include:
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction and Bruxism are treated with a combination of treatments involving a team of specialists. It is highly recommended that a thorough dental examination is performed by a dentist to identify dental issues and contributing factors such as masseter hypertrophy.
At Kaya Cosmedica, we offer muscle relaxing injections using the same substance as anti-wrinkle injections for TMD and bruxism relief and jawline enhancement. While most people know these injections for their cosmetic benefits, they are also used therapeutically to treat a variety of muscle-related conditions.
By administering muscle relaxants into the temporalis and masseter muscles on the sides of the face, we can temporarily limit muscle contraction. This approach helps reduce the tension, inflammation, and pain associated with TMD and Bruxism. Anti-wrinkle injections do not treat the root cause of TMJ disorders, but controlling the unpleasant symptoms can make pursuing other treatment options easier and more comfortable.
In addition Dr PK recommends a holistic approach to treatment including stress management, dental splints/treatment, physical therapy, medications such as anti-inflammatories and addressing any underlying causes such as sleep disorders. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage to teeth and the TMJ.
Medicare does not cover this treatment for TMD.
WHAT DOES THE TREATMENT INVOLVE?
All new patients to Kaya Cosmedica start with a consultation with DR PK or her experienced cosmetic nurse injectors to assess and decide whether the treatment is suitable. If anti-wrinkle injections are appropriate the number of injections you will benefit from and their placement will be discussed. You will likely receive several injections in your masseter muscles and/or temple area.
The procedure is quick and convenient. You do not need a referral, and the injections can be administered in 15 minutes.
Most patients who visit Kaya Cosmedica’s South Melbourne clinic report very little discomfort from TMD/Bruxism injections. The sensation is usually described as a pinprick, bug bite, or sting. Ice and vibration tool can be used to ensure you are as comfortable as possible during your treatment.
If you feel tenderness in the area after your treatment, a cool compress will usually feel good. Any post-treatment discomfort is usually mild and brief. To read more.
There is no required downtime after anti-wrinkle injections for TMD. While some patients experience minor swelling or redness right after the procedure, it generally disappears rapidly and does not interfere with a return to work or social activities.
Other short-term side effects may include tenderness and bruising around the injection sites. In rare cases, patients may experience nausea, a minor headache, or flu-like symptoms.
After receiving this treatment, we recommend avoiding the following:
Our team will help you understand all the potential risks of this procedure and the recovery guidelines. to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your treatment.
After receiving anti-wrinkle injections for TMJ, you may feel some improvement addressing concerns within a day or two, but it will likely take 2 weeks before you start to notice a significant difference. The onset of your results will depend somewhat on the dosage delivered and how your body metabolises the active ingredient.
When used as a cosmetic treatment to treat masseter reduction, a visible difference can be seen as early as two weeks after treatment. However, achieving the optimal effects may take up to six weeks.
Most injections for TMJ disorders last approximately four to six months. When the product wears off, the muscles will regain normal function. Repeating the treatment a few times per year can extend the benefits.
Comfort is a click away. Request an appointment using the convenient online booking platform. Our team will work to schedule a consultation. Dr PK and her team are experienced practitioners, continually educating themselves on the most up-to-date techniques and therapies for cosmetic and medical needs.
