Botox for Bruxism

If you often experience jaw soreness or pain in the morning, you could be suffering from bruxism. Bruxism is a condition in which masseter muscles in the jaw produce involuntary teeth grinding or jaw clenching.

Although some patients find relief from bruxism through the use of a night guard, Botox Rockville for teeth grinding often proves to be a more effective alternative.

Continue reading to learn all about Botox injections for the treatment of bruxism.

What Are Some of the Negative Effects of Bruxism?

Unconscious teeth grinding or jaw clenching, while awake or asleep, can lead to a host of undesirable symptoms, including headaches, earaches, facial pain, migraines, and a sore jaw.

Bruxism can also cause a variety of dental problems ranging from loss of tooth enamel, increased tooth sensitivity, and flattening and/or chipping of the teeth.

Finally, it’s not uncommon for women and men who suffer from chronic teeth grinding to experience hypertrophy of the masseter muscle – the muscle that moves the jaw. This can lead to the appearance of a severe square jaw and may be aesthetically displeasing.

What to Expect from Botox for Teeth Grinding?

Botox for teeth grinding is a quick, convenient, and virtually painless process.

During the procedure, Botox is precisely injected into overactive masseter muscles to temporarily weaken them. As a result of Botox’s paralytic effect, these muscles are no longer able to engage in involuntary teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

Treatment time is usually 15 to 20 minutes and well-tolerated by most patients. In fact, the majority of individuals who undergo Botox for teeth grinding say that they feel nothing more than a slight pricking sensation with each injection.

How Long Can Botox Alleviate Symptoms of Teeth Grinding?

Post-treatment, patients are free to go about their day as they normally would, without any restrictions. In the coming days, they will be pleased to note a marked reduction in teeth grinding and associated symptoms. Results can last up to 3-4 months.

Learn More About Botox for Bruxism

If you are considering Botox Rockville for teeth grinding, please contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Rochelle E. Hackley DDS.