Masseter Botox

Overview

The injection reduces the force of clenching; the night guard protects the teeth from the force that remains. Together they cover both sides of the problem, which is why we rarely recommend one without the other.

Who is it for?

• Waking with a tight, aching jaw, or headaches around the temples
• Crowns, veneers or fillings that keep chipping or coming loose
• Worn, flattened tooth surfaces from long-term grinding
• A night guard on its own that has not been enough to control the clenching

How we do it

1. 01

   Examination

   We examine the muscle while you clench, look at the wear pattern on your teeth and the state of any existing restorations, and ask about headaches, jaw locking and sleep.

2. 02

   Planning the dose

   The number of units and the injection points are decided from the size and strength of your masseter. The aim is to lower the clenching force while leaving normal chewing untouched.

3. 03

   The injection

   A few small injections into each masseter with a fine needle. No anaesthesia is needed and the appointment takes about 15 minutes.

4. 04

   Night guard and review

   A night guard is fitted or checked at the same appointment. The effect builds over the first two weeks; we review you at that point and adjust at the next session if needed.

After the treatment

• Mild tenderness at the injection sites for a day or two is normal. Do not rub or massage the area, and stay upright for the first few hours.
• Chewing can feel slightly weaker for the first week or two while the muscle settles. Very hard or chewy food is best left until it has.
• Wear the night guard as directed. The effect wears off gradually, so keep to the review appointments rather than waiting for the symptoms to come back.

Frequently asked questions

This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Treatment planning is only possible after a clinical examination and radiographs at the clinic.