Teeth Clenching Treatment
Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism) may present with symptoms such as jaw muscle tension, jaw joint discomfort and headaches. Botulinum toxin treatment is one option that may be considered.
What Is Teeth Clenching Treatment?
Botulinum toxin is injected into the chewing muscles (masseters) to balance muscle activity. In people with pronounced muscle activity, widening of the lower face may also be considered as part of treatment.
Planning considers muscle anatomy, symptom severity and facial proportions together. Dental referral is arranged where necessary for tooth- or joint-related conditions.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- Assessment. The chewing muscles, symptoms and facial proportions are assessed together.
- Planning. Dose and injection points are determined according to muscle volume.
- Treatment. The product is injected into the chewing muscles at the planned points; the procedure is brief.
- Review. Symptoms and balance are assessed once the effect has settled, and a repeat-treatment plan is made.
Who May Be Considered for Treatment?
- People who wake up with jaw tension and headaches
- People with reported tooth damage caused by clenching
- People who feel pronounced jaw muscle tension
- People with muscle-related widening of the lower face
Dental assessment and approaches such as a night guard may be planned together for joint- and tooth-related concerns; a comprehensive assessment is essential.
After Treatment
Temporary tenderness may occur at the injection sites and usually subsides quickly. The effect develops over several days; chewing comfort and changes in symptoms are assessed at follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it affect my chewing?
The aim is to balance excessive muscle activity while preserving chewing function; doses are determined according to this principle.
How long does the effect last?
Duration varies from person to person; repeat-treatment timing is planned during follow-up according to the course of symptoms.
Will my face become slimmer?
People with prominent muscle volume may notice a softer lower-face contour over time; this is considered during assessment.
Appointment for a Medical Assessment
A medical assessment determines whether teeth clenching treatment is suitable for you. Contact us with your questions or to request an appointment.
The information on this page is for general information only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. Treatment suitability, scope and potential results vary from person to person and require a medical assessment.