In line with current evidence and guidelines, Botox® is utilized for the treatment of:
Jaw pain and tension (TMJ dysfunction): Relieves pain from jaw clenching, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort, and overactive masseter muscles. It also helps reduce teeth grinding, which often exacerbates TMJ issues.
Chronic headaches and migraines: Particularly effective for tension-related headaches and migraines caused by muscle tightness in the head and neck.
Botox® is a specific brand of botulinum toxin. While there are other brands, Botox® is the only one clinically proven to help with migraines and headaches. This toxin is derived from Clostridium botulinum and, when administered by medical professionals, is safe and effective for various medical conditions.
Botox works by blocking nerve signals to muscles, which reduces muscle contractions. After a thorough assessment, specific muscles causing symptoms are targeted to achieve optimal results. The effects are temporary but can last several months.
Targeted Botox injections are used to relax the overactive muscles (primarily the masseter and temporalis), reducing jaw tension, pain, and associated symptoms like headaches and teeth grinding.
Botox Procedure Details
Assessment Appointment: A 30-minute consultation is required to diagnose, assess and plan the most effective treatment approach.
Treatment Appointment: The injection procedure takes approximately 30 minutes.
Recovery and Post-Treatment Care:
Minimal downtime is required.
Possible mild bruising or swelling at injection sites.
Avoid the following for the first 24 hours:
When Will I See Results?
Results can take a minimum of 2 weeks to notice improvement, however it is normal to take up to 6 weeks for specifically TMJ/masseter treatments to fully take effect.
Will My Face Change Appearance?
No noticeable aesthetic changes occur. However, repeated treatments may result in a subtle slimming of the jawline over time.
How Long Does the Treatment Last?
Results typically last 3–6 months.
Some patients, especially those with severe symptoms, may need more frequent treatments during the first year.
Effectiveness
Studies show a 70% improvement in TMJ-related symptoms.
Cost
TMJ/masseter Botox starts from £260.
Higher doses may be required for individuals with stronger muscles (e.g., male patients).
Botox is licensed for treating chronic migraines and headaches per NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines. Our clinic adheres to the PREEMPT protocol recommended in the UK.
How Does Botox Relieve Headaches and Migraines?
Botox blocks acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for pain signals, and prevents the activation of headache pathways in the head and neck. It also relieves muscular tension in areas like the upper trapezius, a common trigger for headaches and neck pain.
Procedure Details
Injection Sites: A series of 31 small injections are administered to targeted muscles in the head, forehead, neck, and shoulders.
Repeat Treatments: Injections can be repeated every 12 weeks until symptoms improve, followed by maintenance treatments every 6–12 months.
Recovery and Post-Treatment Care:
Minimal downtime is required.
Possible mild bruising or swelling at injection sites.
Avoid the following for the first 24 hours:
When Will I See Results?
Improvement is typically noticed 2 weeks after the first treatment.
If partial improvement occurs, a second session may be required at 12 weeks.
Does the Treatment Alter Facial Appearance?
Botox in the PREEMPT protocol includes areas of the forehead. The treatment can result in reducing forehead lines caused by tension but does not dramatically alter your appearance.
How Long Does the Treatment Last?
A second session may be needed at 12 weeks to maximize results.
Long-term treatment is typically required every 6–12 months, depending on individual response.
Effectiveness
The PREEMPT protocol has an 80% success rate in reducing headache and migraine symptoms.
Additional muscle tension areas (e.g., trapezius) can also be treated if needed.
Cost
Migraine Botox treatments start from £450.
Additional areas may require higher doses, discussed during the consultation.
You should avoid Botox if:
Like all medications, Botox may cause side effects, which can include:
