Bruxism Treatment (Botulinum Toxin)

Botulinum toxin injected into the masseter muscles at the angle of the jaw to ease teeth grinding and jaw clenching (bruxism). By relaxing these powerful chewing muscles, the treatment can reduce clenching force, associated jaw tension and morning soreness, and may also slim a heavily built jawline. At AESTETICA it is performed by a physician after assessing the muscles, and is a common option for adults whose grinding affects comfort or sleep.

Bruxism — habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, often during sleep — is driven largely by the masseter muscles, the strong muscles at the angle of the jaw that close the mouth. Injecting botulinum toxin into these muscles temporarily reduces how forcefully they can contract, which can ease clenching, lessen the strain transmitted to the teeth and jaw joint, and relieve the tension headaches and jaw soreness that some people wake with. A frequent secondary effect is a softer, slimmer jaw contour where the masseters were prominent. At AESTETICA the physician first palpates the masseter muscles, often asking you to clench so the treatment can be targeted accurately, then places injections into each muscle through a fine needle. The appointment is short and chewing strength for normal eating is preserved; the aim is to reduce excessive force, not to stop the muscle working. There is minimal downtime. The effect typically develops over one to two weeks and commonly lasts several months before movement returns and a repeat session may be considered; some people find the interval lengthens with repeated treatment. It is suited to adults troubled by sleep bruxism, daytime clenching, jaw tension or masseter hypertrophy. The treatment is not a substitute for a dental assessment of the bite or for a night guard where one is indicated, and suitability and contraindications are reviewed at consultation.