TMJ & Bruxism Therapy in Calgary NE
Muscle-targeted therapy can help relieve chronic jaw pain, tension headaches, and teeth grinding. Treatment is provided by dentists with detailed training in head, neck, and jaw anatomy, and always begins with an in-person assessment.
Targeted Relief for Overworked Jaw Muscles
Many people live with jaw pain, clicking, morning headaches, or worn teeth caused by TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders and bruxism (teeth grinding). One treatment option is botulinum toxin — a prescription medication known by brand names such as Botox® — injected in small, targeted doses to relax the overactive muscles involved.
Dentists work with the anatomy of the face, jaw, and the musculature surrounding the mouth every day. At The Port Dental Clinic, our dentists use muscle-targeted therapy to help relieve pain and dysfunction, and can discuss related facial-aesthetic options at your consultation.
Appointments are typically short — around 15–20 minutes — and minimally invasive, with no downtime for most patients. Many patients notice improvement within days, though individual results vary. Because this is a prescription treatment, it always starts with an in-person assessment to confirm it's appropriate for you.
Help for TMJ, Jaw Pain & Headaches
Targeted injections into overactive jaw muscles may help relieve chronic symptoms — including cases that haven't responded to other treatments. Suitability is assessed individually.
TMJ / TMD Relief
Treatment relaxes the masseter and temporalis muscles that contribute to TMJ pain, clicking, and limited jaw movement. Many patients report noticeable relief within days; results vary.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
By reducing the force of involuntary clenching and grinding, treatment can help protect teeth from further damage and ease morning jaw soreness and tension headaches.
Chronic Headaches
Tension headaches that originate from jaw clenching and facial muscle strain may be reduced with carefully placed injections in the muscles involved.
Masseter Hypertrophy
Enlarged jaw muscles from chronic clenching can create a square, heavy jawline. Muscle-relaxing treatment can reduce masseter overactivity over time, easing pain and muscle bulk.
Facial Aesthetics — Discussed at Your Consultation
Because the same muscle-relaxing treatment used therapeutically also has facial-aesthetic applications, some patients ask about these options alongside their TMJ or bruxism care. Whether any of these is appropriate for you is an individual clinical decision made with your dentist at an in-person consultation.
Gummy Smile
If your upper lip rises high when you smile and shows more gum tissue than you'd like, relaxing the lip elevator muscles may help create a more balanced smile. Your dentist can assess whether this is suitable for you.
Lines Around the Mouth
Fine vertical lines around the lips (perioral lines) may be softened with precisely placed treatment — results vary and are discussed during your assessment.
Jawline Contour
Where enlarged masseter muscles contribute to a wide, square facial appearance, reducing muscle overactivity may gradually soften the jawline over several weeks.
Chin Dimpling
An overactive mentalis muscle can create a dimpled chin texture. Treatment may smooth this area; your dentist will discuss expected outcomes with you.
Why See a Dentist for TMJ Therapy?
Dentists spend years studying the anatomy of the face, jaw, and oral structures, and can assess your bite and jaw function as part of one treatment plan.
Deep facial anatomy knowledge — dentists train extensively on the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels of the face and jaw.
Precision injection technique — years of experience with fine-motor dental work translates to accurate, controlled treatment placement.
Understanding of bite mechanics — your dentist can correlate your bite, jaw function, and facial muscles for a holistic treatment plan.
Convenient combined appointments — address TMJ pain, dental health, and facial aesthetics in one location.
Provided within Alberta's regulatory framework — botulinum toxin treatment at our clinic is provided by our dentists in accordance with College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta requirements.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Consultation & Assessment
We start with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, jaw function, facial muscles, and goals. For TMJ patients, we'll assess your bite, jaw movement, and muscle tenderness. For cosmetic patients, we'll discuss the results you're looking for and create a personalized plan.
Targeted Injection
Using ultra-fine needles, small amounts of the medication are injected into specific muscles. The treatment typically takes 15–20 minutes. Most patients describe the sensation as a brief pinch — anaesthesia is usually not required.
Results & Follow-Up
Therapeutic effects typically begin within days, with full effect at around two weeks. Effects generally last several months depending on the treatment area and individual factors. We schedule a follow-up to assess your response and discuss whether maintenance treatment makes sense for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ & Bruxism Therapy
What Our Patients Say
“I have been coming to Port dental for almost 6 months because my parents recommended it and I'm very glad they did. Ive mostly been helped by Dr. Sandhu, but every interaction Ive had with the staff from Port dental has been nothing short of professional and kind (including the front desk ladies and the hygienists). Ive had cleanings and fillings done here as well as a botox treatment for TMJ. I highly recommend this clinic.”
“Everyone was really nice and welcoming! They helped me with all my concerns in the past I've had dental anxiety from past dentist offices but they been really assuring and detailed :).”
“I was a bit nervous about my dental appointment, but the team at Port Dental made me feel at ease. The clinic was modern and clean, and the treatment was quick and painless. I'm so glad I chose this clinic!”
Living With Jaw Pain or Teeth Grinding?
Book a consultation at The Port Dental Clinic to discuss whether TMJ and bruxism therapy is right for you. Caring, comfort-focused treatment in a welcoming environment.