How do you differentiate TMJ due to articular dysfunction vs masseter muscle dysfunction?

Doctor's Answers 1

Dentist

TMJ(temporo-mandibular joint) issues have increased dramatically over the last 20 years. My personal opinion is that there is no dysfunction of the joint or the muscles.

TMJ issues are widely accepted to be caused by bruxism. The root cause of this is stress, internal or external. Human beings are programmed to respond to high levels of stress with the "Fight or Flight" reflex, otherwise known as the Sympathetic Reflex. Part of this reflex involves us clenching our teeth.

Therefore, I believe that all the issues are due to hyperfunction.

There are up to 40 possible side effects of this hyperfunction. These include worn teeth, stiff shoulders, frequent headaches, poor quality of sleep and even dark eye circles and eyebags.

The solution, I propose to my patients, is to manage the stress and the provision of preventive measures to reduce the symptoms.

Similar Questions

Dental

How can I reduce the size of my masseter muscle?

The left masseter, if grossly imbalanced can be weakened with botulinum toxin. And yes, the frequency of injections will lessen over time due to reduced usage. Do note that if you end up using the right side more because the left is weakened, you will end up with a strong right masseter, and need treatment for that too. Some chewing equality and training is advisable, and I can guide you to the right direction for that if desired. Hope it works out nicely for you!

Answered By

Aesthetic

For masseter Botox injection to achieve jaw slimming, is it more effective to get 20 units divided over 3 injection points or 20 units in a single injection point?

It is more effective to inject the 20 units in the lower and more posterior parts of the muscle as the aim is to achieve a V shaped lower face, therefore the lower and posterior parts of the muscle should be targeted to shrink more. By placing 20 units in one spot only, the doctor can not reach the other parts of the muscle and you may just get a overall sunken face rather than a slim tapering lower face. Also , by injecting in the lower and posterior parts , the doctor can avoid Botox fromflowing in front to the risorius muscle , which will cause an asymmetrical smile .