Botox And Dermal Fillers

What is TMJ disorder, and how are Botox and fillers used to treat it?
TMJ disorder is a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. It's often driven by chronic teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism), which overworks the jaw muscles and puts excess strain on the joint. Botox works by relaxing these overactive muscles, reducing the force behind grinding and clenching. Dermal fillers can be used alongside Botox to support facial balance and address changes in facial contour caused by long-term muscle tension.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder and teeth grinding?
Some of the signs that you may be dealing with TMJ disorder or bruxism include:

• Jaw pain, tightness, or soreness, especially in the morning
• Frequent headaches or tension near the temples
• Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
• Worn, flattened, or cracked teeth
• A wider or more prominent jawline from muscle overuse
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully

Because these symptoms often develop gradually, many patients don't connect them to TMJ disorder until Dr. Shine identifies the underlying cause during an exam.

How is TMJ disorder treated with Botox and dermal fillers?
Dr. Shine and her staff, evaluate your bite, jaw function, and facial muscle patterns to determine whether Botox, dermal fillers, or a combination of both is right for you.

Botox injections are placed directly into the muscles responsible for grinding and clenching. By reducing muscle activity, Botox eases the strain on the jaw joint, relieves related headaches, and helps protect your teeth from further wear. Many patients also notice a softer, more balanced facial appearance as the muscles relax.

Dermal fillers can be used to complement this treatment by restoring volume and symmetry to areas of the face affected by muscle tension, contributing to a more balanced overall look.

Is it safe to receive Botox and dermal filler treatments from a dentist?
Yes. As a dentist, Dr. Shine has extensive training in the anatomy of the jaw, facial muscles, and nerves — the same structures targeted in TMJ and facial balancing treatments. This specialized knowledge of the oral-facial region allows her to place injections with precision, minimizing discomfort and reducing the risk of side effects. Treatments are performed right in the office, so there's no need for a separate referral to an outside specialist.

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To get started with facial balancing and TMJ treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Shine and her team at Shine DDS. You can call the office at (718) 751-0101 or book your visit online.