Botox for Bruxism

Botox for bruxism: Relieves jaw tension

Treatment with botulinum toxin selectively relaxes the masseter muscles and, when appropriate, the temporalis muscles, reducing the microspasms responsible for clenching or grinding the teeth. This reduces jaw tension and pain, protects the enamel, and improves sleep quality. It is an outpatient procedure, quick and with minimal discomfort.

Main Benefits

• Decreases jaw tension and pain.
• Reduces tooth wear and tension headaches.
• Improves sleep quality and muscle recovery.
• 15–20 minute procedure, no downtime.
• Visible results between 3 and 7 days, with maximum results at 2 weeks.

How does it work?

Botulinum toxin modulates the excessive activity of the muscles involved in bruxism. It does not immobilize the jaw or affect speech; it reduces excessive force while chewing and at rest, decreasing damage to teeth and the temporomandibular joint.

Procedure

1. Clinical assessment and personalized injection point planning.
2. Hygiene of the area and microinjections with a fine needle in the masseter muscle (and temporalis muscle if necessary).
3. Approximate duration: 15–20 minutes. Immediate return to routine.

Care and safety

• Avoid local massages and intense exercise for 24 hours.
• Do not lie down or apply heat for the first 4 hours.
• Review at 10–14 days to assess adjustment if necessary.
• Duration of effect: 3–6 months; maintenance recommended 2–3 times a year.

Indications and contraindications

Indicated in bruxism with pain, tooth wear or masseter hypertrophy, and in patients who do not tolerate a splint. Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, neuromuscular disorders, local infection, or allergy to components. It can be combined with a bite splint, physical therapy, and stress management strategies for comprehensive results.