BOTOX® Injections

Our dentists, Dr. Woods Woolwine, Dr. Kara Tapangan and Dr. Nancy Duque, and our team have several treatments to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile. But at Sonterra Dental, we also offer BOTOX® treatments in San Antonio, Texas, for non-cosmetic procedures. Our patients are often surprised to learn that BOTOX injections can be used to treat jaw and face pain as well as add something extra to your appearance. Please contact our office at 210-341-3222 to learn more about the benefits of BOTOX and plan your visit.

What is non-cosmetic BOTOX?

BOTOX (onabotulinumtoxinA) is an FDA-approved medication that is administered through injection, and it has a reputation for improving unwanted frown lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet for an overall more youthful look. Starting in the 1970s, however, doctors began experimenting with botulinum toxin’s ability to address medical concerns by precisely relaxing muscles in targeted areas. Combined with their expert training and understanding of facial structure and musculature, our dentists can use BOTOX to address neck or face pain, consistent migraines, problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ and TMD), and bruxism.

What is bruxism?

Bruxism, or the unconscious grinding, gnashing or clenching of teeth, can occur at any time of the day, though it commonly occurs when sufferers are asleep. This habit can get worse during times of stress and triggers muscle tension that causes pain in the face, neck and head. Over a long period of time, bruxism can even cause permanent damage to your teeth. Sleep bruxism is especially detrimental to your health, as it can interrupt your sleep patterns and even wake up other people in your house.

Common symptoms of bruxism may include:

• Worn, chipped or sensitive teeth
• Gum disease or tooth lost
• Chronic migraines or headaches
• Frequent ear ringing or earaches
• Joint pain in the jaw or diagnosable TMD
• Pain or muscle stiffness in the jaw, neck, shoulders or upper back
• Snoring or sleep apnea

How does BOTOX for bruxism or TMD work?

BOTOX injections reduce involuntary muscle activity by temporarily blocking off the nerves in your muscles. When used in aesthetic procedures, this is aimed at relaxing the skin and reducing lines and wrinkles. In the treatment of migraines or bruxism, this weakens the jaw muscles that are causing the involuntary teeth grinding without interfering with your ability to eat or speak.

What can I expect from my BOTOX treatment?

BOTOX treatments are quick and comfortable and do not require any incisions, stitches or surgery. When you visit our office, our dentists will inject the medication into the targeted muscles, and you will be able to resume your day-to-day activities as soon as we are done. To ensure your entire procedure is comfortable, we may also apply ice or numbing cream to the treatment area before your injection. From beginning to end, the treatment should only take 10 to 20 minutes.

You should begin to notice the results of treatment within 24 to 48 hours after leaving our office. The treatment results can last up to four months. If the treatment is especially effective for you, we recommend revisiting our office for regular BOTOX injections. Over time, many patients notice their treatment results last longer, meaning their visits with our team can become less frequent.

If you have any questions about non-cosmetic BOTOX or would like to meet with our team to find out if this treatment is right for you, please call or visit our office. We are more than happy to help you find a solution to your jaw pain and bruxism that works for your smile.