At the age of 30, my dentist told me that I would have major problems if I didn't get my teeth grinding under control. He recommended a night guard as well as I look into botox for the jaw. So after extensive research on the topic of treatment of botox for TMJ and teeth grinding, I discovered that this is EXTREMELY technique dependent. It's absolutely crucial to see a doctor that understands the facial anatomy AND specializes in this treatment. Believe it or not, for many years, I was forced to fly from Chicago to a specialist in Texas for the treatment because there were no specialists in Illinois. While there are many doctors that offer Botox, none treated this area.
Fortunately, in 2009, I discovered that Dr. Anil Shah, a facial plastic surgeon from New York, had moved his practice to Chicago--and specialized in Jaw Botox. While I was excited to finally have a local doctor offer this treatment, I also knew how technique dependent it is, and wasn't about to see him until I did extensive research on his background. In doing so, I was completely blown away by not only Dr. Shah's credentials and training, as well as the sheer number of awards he had won. For the past 5 years in a row, Dr. Shah has been recognized by "Marquis' Who's Who in America", as well as "Best of US" as one of the best facial plastic surgeons in the world. And that is just the tip of the iceberg. When I spent time on his website, I learned that he won numerous other awards over the years. While, it's always a little scary to see someone new, I was fully confident Dr. Shah's was the more than qualified and decided to give him a try.
I live in the suburbs, so driving to the city is never fun, but it certainly beats flying to Texas. Dr. Shah's office is located in the WaterTower place building on Michigan Avenue. There is a heated parking garage in the building, so if money is no object, its very convenient. I personally did not want to spend $30 every time I park, so decided to look for street parking. Just a tip, if you are willing to walk about 5-10 minutes, you can always get parking with a meter off Walton Street. Many times, I actually enjoy the walk as it's the ritzy part of the city, and parking only cost me $5.00.:) I typically park 15 minutes before my appointment. This gives me time to walk to the building, go up the elevators, and get to his office.
Dr. Shah's waiting room is very modern/chic, with an artistic flair. However, upon learning Dr. Shah is artist and sculptor, this comes as no surprise. The wait times are Dr. Shahs' office are not awful, but do plan on some wait time. There are times I have gotten right in, and a few times I have a very long wait to see him. But most of the time, it's about 15-20 minutes, so not great, but not horrible either. I don't like waiting, but it's worth it for Dr. Shah as he's the only one in the city of Chicago that has extensive experience with this treatment.
When first meeting Dr. Shah,, I was surprised by how humble and down to earth he was. I was fully expecting him to have a very big ego, especially given his multiple awards as "Best Doctor in the US". I wouldn't blame if he did, but that was not the case at all. He made me feel very comfortable and at ease when talking to him. That is all just a just icing on the cake because I would see him even if he did have an ego. After all, what really matters is that a doctor is extremely qualified, has a ton of experience, and provide great results. And Dr. Shah is all that and then some! I couldn't be any happier with the treatments, and would absolutely recommend him for anyone suffering from TMJ or teeth grinding. These botox treatments have honestly changed my life and very grateful to have such a talented doctor right here in Chicago. I would have given Dr. Shah 5 stars, but the but the parking at his office in WaterTower place is a little pricey. Don't forget you can always walk from Walton Street and pay only $5.00. Needless to say,'s not fun walking 10 minutes in the winter or when it rains. Because of this, I am lowering my rating from 5 to 4 stars.
All in all, I have nothing but great things to say about Dr Shah. I can't recommend him enough and forever grateful. While many doctor offer Botox, very few are skilled to do this area. Thanks God Dr. Shah is, because it's made a huge difference on my quality of life!!! In addition, I love that I don't have to fly to Texas to see a specialist. We have our own specialist right here in Chicago!! read more