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The application of Botox for bruxism is an outpatient and minimally invasive treatment. The patient will undergo a comprehensive aesthetic evaluation, where our professionals will assess your case and estimate how many units of Botox will be used according to your needs. Topical anesthesia is used to avoid the discomfort of the puncture and then proceed to apply the Botox injections in the masseter muscle. In this way, we are able to relieve the tension produced by this involuntary act, relaxing the blocked muscles, without affecting the chewing capacity. The session may take about 30 minutes.
Most people are familiar with botulinum toxin for removing wrinkles or plumping lips. But recent studies published in Neurology and Pain Research and Management have shown that the muscle-relaxing properties of botulinum toxin hold promise for stopping jaw clenching and teeth grinding. At least for some time. According to a study published in Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, botulinum toxin has also been shown to help treat a variety of non-cosmetic conditions in addition to bruxism. Botulinum toxin temporarily paralyzes muscles, so it is equally useful in treating other conditions of the head and face (such as facial dystonia) where certain muscles need to be relaxed.
If you are being treated with botulinum toxin for bruxism, a small amount will be injected into the muscles responsible for jaw movement, most likely the masseter muscle, which is responsible for chewing. It may also be injected into the frontalis and temporalis muscles, depending on your specific needs. Botulinum toxin will reduce tightness and also help relieve tension and headaches you may experience. Botulinum toxin usually takes effect 1 to 3 days after injection (but can take up to two weeks), and the effects can last 3 to 6 months.
According to the Mayo Clinic, botulinum toxin is relatively safe when injected by an experienced physician. However, there are some possible short-term side effects, such as:
