112 Balham High Road, SW12 9AA
Book Appointment
020 8675 7210
[email protected]

THE GROWING PROBLEM OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS

The most common causes are teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching your teeth, or misaligned teeth. Less commonly is joint disorders and underlying joint disease.

Other types of stress, unrelated to the use of the jaw muscles, can also increase the discomfort of TMJ.

Often the cause is multifactioral and a full assessment is required to find the best treatment options for you. These treatment types may include, splint (mouthguard therapy), anti-inflammatories, physio, orthodontic re-alignment of teeth, Botox. Book in for a consultation and we can assess your needs further.

Many TMJ Conditions Respond Well to TMJ Treatment

We focus on:

  • Thorough assessment of your condition
  • Professional and effective TMJ treatment including splint therapy or botox.
  • Correction of underlying causes
  • Lasting results
  • Helping you understand and manage your condition
  • We will direct you to a relevant specialist if we find our approach to TMJ treatment is not appropriate for your TMJ condition.

Clenching and botulinum toxin treatment

Teeth grinding, or Bruxism, is the unconscious clenching of teeth, often caused by stress and other factors, which can lead to physical pain and dental problems.

Anti-clenching treatment, such as Botulinum toxin injections, serves several purposes:

  • Muscle Relaxation: Temporarily relaxes jaw muscles to prevent forceful clenching and grinding.
  • Pain Relief: Alleviates jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort associated with Bruxism.
  • Prevention of Dental Damage: Reduces teeth grinding intensity to prevent enamel wear, fractures, and tooth loss.
  • Treatment for TMD: Part of a comprehensive plan for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders by reducing jaw muscle tension/hypertrophy.
  • Improved Sleep Quality: Lessens grinding related muscle activity during sleep, promoting a quieter and more restful night.

A CONSULTATION WITH DR LUCY WHITWORTH WILL BE REQUIRED TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE SUITABLE BY ASSESSING AND DISCUSSING YOUR HISTORY OF TEETH GRINDING/CLENCHING

“Botox” is not a stand alone treatment for teeth grinding, a multidisciplinary approach should be taken. A consultation with Dr Lucy Whitworth will be required to determine if you are suitable by assessing and discussing your history of teeth grinding/clenching, and if alternative treatments have been used in the past.

You are not suitable for anti-clenching treatment if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have a neuromuscular condition (e.g. myasthenia gravis, Eaton-Lambert)
  • Are allergic to the anti-clenching treatment solution used
  • Are taking aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g. gentamycin, clindamycin)
  • Have a skin infection in the area to be treated

Some mild discomfort is possible but this is usually temporary, as the anticlenching treatment solution is injected relatively quickly using a very fine needle.

During the consultation you will need to fill out a medical form. Photographs of your face will then be taken, the treatment explained and time allowed for questions before consent forms completed. Your skin will be cleansed prior to any injections. Appointment time approximately 30 minutes.

To maintain the final result, repeat treatment will be required after 3 months for a period of 9 months and then every 6 to 9 months.

Dr Rouba Sbano
Book for restorative

Phone: 020 8675 7210

Email: [email protected]

Kelly-Ann Reed
BOOK FOR CLENCHING AND BOTULINUM TOXIN

Phone: 020 8675 7210

Email: [email protected]

Balham Dental Studio
Balham Dental Studio

Balham Dental Studio

112 Balham High Road, SW12 9AA

020 8675 7210

[email protected]

Contact Us

Book an Appointment

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30 am – 7:00 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am – 7:00 pm
Thursday 8:30 am – 7:00 pm
Friday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Saturday* 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Sunday Closed

*Open fortnightly on Saturday

Closed on Bank Holidays