How Botox Can Help You Stop Grinding Your Teeth
Most people think of Botox as a cosmetic treatment for wrinkles. But did you know it can also help treat teeth grinding, also known as bruxism?
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep or stressful moments. It can lead to:
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
- Worn-down teeth
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems
- Poor sleep quality
- Mouthguards are commonly recommended, but they only protect the teeth — they don’t stop the muscle activity that causes the grinding. That’s where Botox comes in.
How Does Botox Work for Teeth Grinding?
Botox is injected into the masseter muscle, the strong muscle on each side of your jaw used for chewing. By relaxing this muscle slightly, Botox reduces the pressure and intensity of unconscious grinding — without affecting your ability to chew or speak normally.
The procedure is quick (usually under 10 minutes) and results last about 3–4 months. Most patients report:
- Reduced jaw tension
- Fewer morning headaches
- Better sleep
- A slimmer jawline as a bonus in some cases
Is It Safe?
Yes — when done by a trained professional. Botox for bruxism is a safe and minimally invasive treatment with little to no downtime.
Who Should Consider It?
You may be a good candidate if:
- You grind your teeth at night or during the day
- You have jaw pain or chronic tension headaches
- You’ve tried other treatments like night guards without success
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