Botulinum Toxin (Bruxism & Gummy Smile)

Botulinum-toxin injections offered alongside dental care, used here for clenching and grinding (bruxism), to soften a gummy smile, and for facial expression lines. As a practice with a special interest in occlusion and jaw function, SmileStudio uses toxin for the masseter muscles to ease bruxism, as well as more cosmetic indications. Treatment is quick, performed in the chair, and tailored after assessment.

Botulinum toxin works by temporarily reducing the activity of the muscle it is injected into. At SmileStudio, which has a particular focus on occlusion and temporomandibular-joint function, this is used both for jaw-related concerns and for facial aesthetics. For bruxism — habitual clenching and grinding that can wear the teeth, fracture restorations and contribute to jaw and facial-muscle discomfort — toxin is injected into the powerful masseter muscles to reduce the force of clenching; this is associated with relief of muscle tension and protection of the teeth, and is often used together with a night guard. For a gummy smile, small doses relax the muscles that lift the upper lip so that less gum shows when smiling. The treatment is also offered for the common facial expression lines, with a liquid formulation priced by the number of areas treated. Sessions are short — usually ten to fifteen minutes — using a very fine needle, and most people return to normal activities the same day while avoiding rubbing the area, heat and vigorous exercise for the rest of the day. Results develop over several days and typically last around three to four months for facial areas, often longer for masseter treatment of bruxism, after which the effect gradually wears off and can be repeated. As a medical treatment it is preceded by an assessment of your suitability and any contraindications; it is not performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The dentist will explain what the treatment can and cannot achieve for your particular concern and agree the areas and dose before proceeding.