Jaw Clenching
and Teeth Grinding

Aesthetic treatments for jaw clenching and teeth grinding (bruxism) are non-surgical options that mainly focus on relaxing the overactive jaw muscles to alleviate pain and prevent dental damage.
The primary method is the use of injectable muscle relaxants, which also provide a cosmetic benefit of facial slimming.

‍Injectable Treatments
Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin): This is the most common and effective aesthetic treatment for bruxism.
‍Mechanism: The neurotoxin is injected directly into the large masseter muscles in the cheeks (and sometimes the temporalis muscles in the temples), blocking nerve signals and reducing muscle activity and contraction force.
‍Benefits: Provides significant relief from jaw pain, tension headaches, and facial soreness. It helps prevent further damage to teeth, and often results in an aesthetic benefit of a slimmer, more V-shaped jawline as the muscle shrinks over time from reduced use.
‍Duration: Results typically last between 3 to 6 months, and repeat treatments can provide ongoing relief.
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‍Energy-Based Procedures

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Also known as cold laser therapy, this non-invasive approach can be used as an adjunct to other treatments.
‍Mechanism: It delivers low-intensity light to deep tissues, which helps reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and ease muscle tension and pain in the jaw and TMJ area.
‍Benefits: Offers a drug-free way to relax tight muscles and can be used in the clinic or with at-home devices for consistent management.
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‍Complementary and At-Home Care
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‍Aesthetic treatments work best when combined with other methods for comprehensive management.

‍Custom-Fitted Night Guards/Splints: These are a traditional first line of defence provided by dentists. They create a physical barrier to protect teeth from the damage of grinding, though they do not stop the clenching itself.
‍Stress Management & Behavioral Therapy: Since stress and anxiety are common triggers for bruxism, techniques like meditation, yoga, exercise, or professional counseling can help manage the underlying cause.
‍Jaw Relaxation Exercises: Specific exercises and massage techniques can help alleviate muscle tension and improve jaw function.
‍Dietary and Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding stimulating beverages like caffeine and alcohol in the evening, and practicing good sleep habits can help reduce the frequency and intensity of bruxism episodes.