Botulinum Toxin for Treating Temporomandibular Disorders: Yes or No?

By Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen Dec 24

Botulinum toxin can be used for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). When it is injected, it blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that causes muscle contractions. 

While Botulinum toxin use for TMD is not recommended as first line therapy, it can occasionally be used as adjunctive management for temporary, symptomatic relief. 

Temporomandibular joint disorders, also known as TMJ disorders, refer to a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), muscles of mastication and contiguous structures.

Botulinum toxin (BTX) therapy has shown potential in treating myogenous temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). While evidence for the efficacy of BTX injections in treating myogenous TMDs is equivocal, some studies have reported positive outcomes in terms of reducing muscle pain and improving jaw function. Further research with enhanced methodological design is necessary to validate the effectiveness and establish optimal treatment protocols for myogenous TMDs using BTX therapy.

On the other hand, the evidence supporting the use of BTX injections for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) articular disorders is limited. TMJ articular disorders involve issues with the joint structure and function, leading to pain and restricted jaw movement. Studies exploring the utility of BTX therapy in TMJ articular disorders are scarce, highlighting the need for more robust research to evaluate its efficacy in this context.  

Due to the variable efficacy of BTX, distinction between the different types of TMJ disorders and an accurate diagnosis is imperative before recommending management options, including BTX injections.