Do you wake up with a tight jaw, a headache at the temples or a tired feeling in your face? Has your dentist told you your teeth are worn, or does your partner hear you grinding at night? These are typical signs of bruxism. On US and UK social media, botulinum toxin in the chewing muscles has become popular as \u201cmasseter Botox\u201d or \u201cjawtox\u201d, mostly for its effect on face shape. Behind the trend, though, there is a real medical benefit worth a serious conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bruxism is involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth. It can happen during the day, often during concentration or stress, or at night during sleep, when people usually don\u2019t notice it. The main driver is the masseter, the powerful chewing muscle at the angle of the jaw. Sometimes the temporalis muscle at the temple is involved too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Possible signs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Small, precisely dosed amounts of botulinum toxin<\/a> are injected into the masseters and, when needed, the temporalis. The toxin temporarily reduces the strength of the muscle\u2019s contraction. The muscle relaxes, pressure on the teeth and joint decreases, and clenching becomes weaker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Normal chewing and speaking are preserved.<\/strong> The aim is not to \u201cswitch off\u201d the muscle but to control its overactivity. Other muscles also work in the jaw, and the dose is chosen so that function remains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When the tension gradually starts to return, that is a sign it is time to assess the next treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In people with prominent masseters \u201ctrained\u201d by clenching, botulinum toxin can gradually soften a wide, square lower face. This effect is not instant<\/strong>. It develops over the following weeks, because the muscle becomes less active and, over time, smaller. That is why the treatment is also popular as non-surgical \u201cjaw slimming\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not every wide face is caused by the masseter, though. Width can come from bone structure, fat or skin laxity. Before treatment, the doctor examines the muscle at rest and while clenching to judge whether the treatment is right for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Botulinum toxin in the masseters may be suitable if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the jaw pain is severe or sudden, or you can\u2019t open your mouth fully, you first need an assessment by a dentist or another specialist to rule out other causes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Botulinum toxin does not replace dental care. If you have tooth wear or a joint problem, it is best to combine treatment with a dental consultation. We sometimes work alongside your dentist, for example when a protective splint is also used. Read more about bruxism treatment at Dermique<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mild redness, tenderness or a bruise at the injection point are possible. Some patients notice their jaw tires more quickly when chewing very hard food for a while. Rarely, with incorrect placement, a neighbouring muscle can be affected and the smile can look temporarily asymmetric. That is why the treatment should be done by a doctor who knows facial anatomy well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The treatment is not done during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with an active infection in the area, with certain neuromuscular conditions, or with a known allergy to the product. Tell your doctor about all medications you take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes. Normal chewing and speaking are preserved. Some patients notice their jaw tires more quickly with very hard food for a while.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first changes are usually felt within a few days, and the maximum effect develops over about two weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually several months. It depends on muscle strength, dose, metabolism and your habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With prominent masseters, the jawline can gradually soften over weeks. Not every wide face is caused by the muscle, so an examination comes first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No. Botulinum toxin does not replace dental care. If you have tooth wear or a joint problem, it is best combined with a dental consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you recognise yourself in this article, the best first step is an examination by a dermatologist. Fill in our enquiry form<\/a> and our team will contact you to confirm a convenient time. You can also reach us via our Contact<\/a> page. Current prices are on our price list<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen you feel the effect and how long it lasts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
The aesthetic effect: a softer jawline<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Who the treatment may suit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
What the treatment at Dermique involves<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Possible side effects<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What you can do yourself<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Will I be able to chew normally?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When will I feel the effect?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How long does it last?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Will my face look slimmer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Does Botox replace my dental splint?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Book a consultation at Dermique<\/h2>\n\n\n\n