San Francisco Dentist Discusses BOTOX Injections for TMJ Disorder and Other TMD Treatment Options
Dr. Jarrod Cornehl, the director of the DENTAL STUDIO SF, explains how treatments such as BOTOX® injections and alternatives such as low-level laser therapy (photobiomodulation) can help many individuals relieve the debilitating symptoms of TMJ Disorder.
San Francisco, CA – According to previous estimates cited by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, between 5 and 12 percent of the U.S. population experiences TMJ Disorder (sometimes referred to as TMD). The temporomandibular joint is what connects the upper and lower jaws. If the joint or surrounding muscles and ligaments are inflamed, this can produce a chain reaction that causes chronic or acute pain in a variety of body areas, which can become progressive and even debilitating. Dr. Jarrod Cornehl, a dentist in San Francisco and the director of the DENTAL STUDIO SF, makes treatment for TMJ Disorder and myofascial pain a special focus of his practice. He says that, over the years, there have been several state-of-the-art advances in treatment modalities for TMD sufferers that have made it possible for many patients to find significant relief from symptoms, and one of those advances involves targeted injections of BOTOX®.
TMJ Disorder is known to cause headaches, facial pain, jaw clicking or “popping”, ear aches, and many other symptoms—even numbness or pain in the upper extremities and other areas of the body that would seem unrelated to conditions of the jaw joints. While TMD can be caused by injury, a misaligned bite, or other structural imbalances, Dr. Cornehl says it can also sometimes be due to simple overstimulation of the muscles utilized when chewing and speaking. That’s where BOTOX® injections may prove to be an effective remedy for some individuals. The BOTOX® solution is comprised of a form of botulinum toxin type-A, which can work to temporarily relax muscles and relieve tension. Dr. Cornehl says the delicate and precise injection of BOTOX® into muscles in the area of the temporomandibular joint can ultimately prevent them from overexertion, which may produce pain relief in the head, neck, and jaw caused by TMJ Disorder. He notes that this option has helped many individuals at his practice after just a couple of treatment sessions, which are minimally-invasive and typically require no downtime.
While BOTOX® injections offer a number of benefits, Dr. Cornehl says it is important to note that the effects of the solution typically fade after four to six months, and repeat treatment sessions may be recommended to maintain the effects for extended periods. He explains that there are several alternative therapies available that may be more suitable for some patients, including custom orthotic appliances to correct jaw alignment or an innovative option such as low-level laser therapy (also known as photobiomodulation). Laser therapy for TMJ Disorder is a technique that uses light energy to restore tissues in the jaw area, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. Dr. Cornehl says photobiomodulation is a completely non-invasive procedure and a series of treatments can often help relieve TMJ symptoms by renewing the tissues at the source of the problem, often with long-term results.
With the frustrating and often-debilitating symptoms that can be brought on by TMD, Dr. Cornehl states that treatments such as BOTOX® injections and laser therapy offer exciting new options for patients, particularly those for whom drug therapy or jaw exercises have not proven sufficiently effective. Dr. Cornehl says the continuing study and revolutionary advances in the fields of dentistry and treatment for facial pain and musculoskeletal conditions have made it possible for many people to relieve their pain and improve their daily lives.
About Jarrod Cornehl, DDS
Dr. Jarrod Cornehl is the head of the DENTAL STUDIO SF in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and many other renowned organizations. In addition to advanced treatments and therapies for TMJ Disorder and myofascial pain, Dr. Cornehl’s practice offers a comprehensive range of general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry procedures. Options include porcelain veneers, dental implants, Invisalign®, and many other treatments designed to improve dental health, function, and aesthetics. Dr. Cornehl is available for interview upon request.
For more information about the DENTAL STUDIO SF, please visit dentalstudiosf.com and facebook.com/dentalstudiosf.
Contact:
DENTAL STUDIO SF
260 Stockton St.
4th Floor
San Francisco CA 94108
(415) 392-5025
Rosemont Media
(800) 491-8623
www.rosemontmedia.com