Botox® for Headaches, Pain and TMJ disorders

Botox® is a type of neurotoxin which, when combined with non-toxic proteins can be utilized for therapeutic purposes. It is injected into a target muscle, blocking the neuromuscular transmission of acetylcholine, resulting in paralysis of that muscle.  This decreases muscle hyper-activity and ultimately decreases pain within a short time frame. 

Botox® has been FDA approved not only for fine lines and wrinkles, but also for the safe treatment of: 

• bruxism (clenching and grinding of teeth)

• TMJ disorders

• chronic migraines

• tension headaches

• other head and neck pain

Injections are made intramuscularly into various sites in the head and neck region. The dosage is dependent on the size of the muscle and the severity of the condition being treated.   Results take about 2–14 days and last for 3-4 months before gradually wearing off.  Botox® treatment involves no surgery, incisions or downtime.   It is an outpatient procedure performed with a small needle and only takes a few minutes. The use of Botox® is very safe, however, as with any medical procedure there are possible risks and side effects to be aware of.  Of those that occur, the majority are those found after any type of injection-redness, bruising and swelling.  

Dr. Wenger received her training by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics (AAFE), whose facial esthetic courses provide the most extensive non-surgical and non-invasive facial injectable training to doctors, nurses, dentists and healthcare professionals. Dr. Wenger and her team always begin with the minimum recommended dose, before going on to re-evaluate your progress after 2-4 weeks. This enables Dr. Wenger to accurately assess whether or not any of your muscles require additional units.  

Please call our office to see if this is a viable treatment option for you.  Feel free to contact us at (515) 964-5700 to learn more and schedule a consultation appointment.