Essence Medical offers Botox injections in the masseter muscle near the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to prevent you from clenching and grinding your teeth. Patients tell us the relief they get is “liberating”.
Our cosmetic doctor, Dr Kieren Bong, is an expert in injecting Botox into the masseter muscles to relieve symptoms of TMJ, headaches, migraines and tooth wear. Many dental surgeries in Glasgow, Edinburgh and wider Scotland refer their patients to us. We offer a variety of treatments, including Botox treatment for clenching and grinding teeth, also known as “jaw Botox”.
Introduction
If you tend to grind your teeth, you have a condition called bruxism. This involuntary behaviour can be quite an annoyance for you, and it may even be causing jaw pain, headaches, the wearing away of tooth enamel, gum sensitivity, or chipped teeth. You may have already tried conventional approaches to changing this behaviour and have been disappointed in the results. In that case, you may be surprised to learn that Botox (short-hand for botulinum toxin) has proven effective as a treatment for grinding teeth.
Really? Botox for jaw clenching?
Most people are familiar with using Botox to get rid of wrinkles. But Botox’s muscle-relaxing properties are very effective in stopping jaw clenching and teeth grinding. At least for some time.
Botox paralyses muscles temporarily, making it effective in reducing clenching, and it will also help with any accompanying tension and aches in your head that you may be experiencing.
How does Botox treatment for clenching and grinding work?
Injecting small doses of Botox directly into the masseter muscle (the jaw muscle) weakens the muscle enough to stop the habitual grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw. As a result, it relieves the TMJ, significantly relaxes the muscle, and reduces the wear and tear on the teeth due to bruxism (the action of clenching or grinding).
What is the best treatment for clenching and grinding?
We often get asked what the best treatment for bruxism is. Unfortunately, there is no proven treatment for the permanent eradication of bruxism, although one of the most effective treatments is Botox.
Is Botox treatment for clenching and grinding (bruxism) safe?
Botulinum toxin is a natural toxin which weakens the masseter muscles when injected in very small amounts. It is safe to use when injected by an experienced doctor.
What are the side effects of Botox for Jaw clenching (bruxism)?
Botox injections in the masseter for clenching and grinding teeth do not have many side effects, and they are rare when administered by our cosmetic doctor. There can be a risk of a “lopsided smile”, although this is rare and returns to normal after a few weeks. In some very rare cases (less than 1%), you may experience fatigue lasting only a few days.
How long does it take for jaw Botox to start taking effect?
The treatment begins to take effect within 48 hours, although the maximum result can take around 10 to 14 days. If you are new to this treatment, we may sometimes ask to see you for a review after 2 to 4 weeks. This is to ensure the dose is optimal and the treatment is working. There is no charge for the review, although there may be a charge for any top-up. We may charge up to £50 to cover the product fee if we need to use additional Botox. Please see the price underneath for product cost.
How long does the effect of Botox last in the jaw muscle?
The effects last anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on how quickly your body metabolises Botox and how regular and consistent you are in having your treatment. This means the duration will vary from person to person. We recommend repeating the treatment every 4 to 6 months.
How much does Botox for jaw clenching cost?
Botox for jaw clenching and grinding teeth in Glasgow at our clinic costs £320-£350. The variance in price is because we have to charge for more product for stronger muscles and bigger, more muscular jaws.
If you are new to this treatment, we may sometimes ask to see you for a review after 2 to 4 weeks. This is to ensure the dose is optimal and the treatment is working. There is no charge for the review, although there may be a charge for any top-up, up to £50, to cover product fee if we need to use additional Botox.
