Do you frequently wake up with jaw soreness, headaches, or teeth that feel sensitive from nighttime clenching? Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort and jaw tension can make it harder to eat, focus, sleep, and enjoy daily life. Fortunately, BOTOX® for TMJ is a non-surgical option that can relax overworked jaw muscles, reduce pain, and calm clenching habits, all while potentially softening a bulky jawline for a more balanced look.
At Softouch Dental Care, TMJ treatment is handled with a deeper understanding of how the bite, jaw muscles, and facial anatomy work together. Dr. Ashley Chung – a graduate of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, one of the nation's top dental programs – offers BOTOX for TMJ and facial aesthetics. She is known for delivering care that is focused, precise, and tailored for your comfort.
What Is BOTOX for TMJ?
BOTOX is a prescription medication that helps relax muscles by blocking overactive nerve signals. When used for TMJ disorder and jaw clenching, it's typically placed in the masseter muscles (the powerful chewing muscles along the jaw) and sometimes in nearby muscles that contribute to tension.
By reducing how strongly these muscles tighten, BOTOX may help relieve the constant pressure that leads to:
- Jaw pain and tightness
- Clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Facial soreness and fatigue
- Tension headaches
Benefits of BOTOX for TMJ and Facial Aesthetics
If your masseter muscles have become enlarged from chronic clenching or grinding, they can create a wider or "square" jawline over time. BOTOX may offer a dual benefit by:
- Reducing jaw tension and muscle soreness
- Lowering the intensity of clenching and grinding
- Easing tension headaches tied to jaw strain
- Softening the look of a bulky masseter muscle
- Creating a slimmer lower-face contour gradually with repeated treatments
For patients who want relief and refinement, this can be a practical option that supports both comfort and confidence.
Ideal BOTOX Candidates
You may be a good candidate for BOTOX if you:
- Clench your jaw during the day or at night
- Grind your teeth and wake up with tightness or soreness
- Have TMJ-related headaches or facial tension
- Notice jaw muscle enlargement or facial asymmetry from overuse
- Want a non-surgical approach with little downtime
During your evaluation, Dr. Ashley Chung will review your symptoms, examine your jaw function, and decide whether muscle-based treatment is likely to help.
What to Expect During Your BOTOX Treatment
Treatment is typically quick and done in the office. The injections are placed precisely into targeted jaw muscles based on where you hold tension and how your muscles move.
Your appointment may include:
- A TMJ assessment and review of symptoms
- Evaluation of muscle tightness and jaw movement
- Targeted injections into the masseter area
- Personalized aftercare instructions
Most patients return to their usual routine right after the visit.
Recovery and Results Timeline
There is minimal downtime after BOTOX for TMJ. You might have mild tenderness at the injection sites, but most people find it manageable and short-lived.
In many cases, patients notice improvement within 3–7 days, with continued changes over time. Full effects become apparent around 2 weeks post-treatment.
As the jaw muscles relax, chewing and daily jaw movement may feel more comfortable, and clenching-related symptoms become less intense. Results often last several months, and repeat treatments may help maintain relief.
Why Choose Softouch Dental Care for BOTOX for TMJ in Oakton, VA?
TMJ symptoms can be exhausting, especially when they affect sleep, eating, and concentration. At Softouch Dental Care, treatments are designed to be clear, supportive, and focused on helping you feel better without guesswork.
Patients choose our team for:
- A detailed evaluation and personalized recommendations
- In-depth understanding of jaw function and facial muscle balance
- Treatment from Dr. Ashley Chung, who has comprehensive training in both general and advanced dental procedures
- A calm environment where questions are welcome, and options are thoroughly explained
FAQs
Find TMJ Relief in Oakton, VA
TMJ pain and jaw clenching can affect everything from sleep to mood, and it's easy to feel stuck when home remedies aren't enough. BOTOX for TMJ offers a simple, non-surgical way to relax the muscles driving your discomfort, while also supporting facial aesthetics for patients who want a softer lower-face contour.
To learn more about BOTOX for TMJ and facial aesthetics, call 703-319-6990 to schedule a consultation with Softouch Dental Care in Oakton, VA.
