Botox How Does Botox Work?Botox, or Botulinum Toxin, is often used for its anti-aging properties. Its cosmetic applications have been well-known for many years. An injection will temporarily disable the muscles in the face by blocking the nerves responsible for contractions. Targeting these muscles can temporarily eliminate wrinkles. It is commonly used to reduce facial wrinkles that can be found on the forehead, the bridge of the nose, the sides of the eyes (“crow’s feet”), around the lips, or the sides of the chin. At New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery, our doctors have been performing Botox injections for cosmetic treatments for many years. Botox Treatment for the TMJThe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the body. Any problem that affects your ability to use this joint is known as a TMJ disorder (TMD). These days, there are many treatments designed to alleviate the numerous and often painful symptoms of the muscular component of TMD. At New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery, we provide cutting-edge, innovative treatments for the treatment of TMD. One of our treatments, which has grown increasingly popular in recent years, involves administering Botox. A Botox injection is a safe and effective way to alleviate some of the muscular symptoms associated with TMD. Botox can alleviate jaw tension by blocking the nerves that control the muscles of your TMJ. Often, these muscles are being clenched unconsciously, which is one of the leading causes of TMD. Botox can also eliminate headaches caused by bruxism (teeth grinding), and severe cases of lockjaw. The TMD pain-relieving effects of Botox vary from person to person. One study has shown that Botox can remain effective for up to three months following treatment. It is important to note that Botox treatment may not necessarily address the cause of your TMD. For more long-term relief, we may recommend another treatment, such as a bite appliance, physical therapy, or habit counseling. In some cases, minimally invasive surgical procedures can be performed to provide patients with relief and improve function. Botox treatment for your TMD could improve your overall quality of life. Eliminating some of the painful symptoms associated with TMD can allow you to use your jaw again properly. Talk with your oral surgery specialist at New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery to learn more about your possible treatment options. Botox Procedure and AftercareFor cosmetic purposes: Botox treatment is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure. The entire process can usually be completed within 30 minutes. After your treatment, you may experience some mild discomfort and redness over the injection site(s) for 24-48 hours. You should avoid touching or massaging the sites to avoid spreading the solution to adjacent areas. Botox injections for cosmetic purposes last for about 6 months. Additional applications may then be necessary for sustained results. For the treatment of TMD: the number and placement of Botox injections are dictated by the severity of your TMD, and the muscles we want to target. Each injection should feel like a small pinch or sting but will not result in major discomfort. Our doctors practice a very gentle technique to improve your comfort during the procedure. After your Botox procedure, you may experience some minor numbness, redness, or bruising around the injection sites. Within 24 to 48 hours, all or most of your muscle tenderness should start to disappear. The diminishing effects could continue for up to one week after your treatment. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, you will be able to return to your day-to-day life immediately. Be sure to avoid touching, rubbing, or massaging your injection sites. This could cause the Botox to spread to unwanted areas. Most patients will not experience any post-operative complications following their treatment. Schedule Your AppointmentFind out if you would benefit from Botox treatment for cosmetic or TMD treatment. Call (914) 768-8220 to schedule your appointment today! |
Office HoursMonday - Friday 9am - 5pm 
 |