Botox for Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Bruxism is a habit that affects around 8-10% of the population. It is broadly characterised by grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw that causes tooth wear and breakage, disorders of the jaw (pain and limited movement) and headache.
How to reduce teeth grinding and its damage:
- Reduce stress
- Stop smoking
- Prevent insomnia
Bruxism is associated with stress, cigarette smoking, and insomnia, so reducing stress, treating underlying anxiety issues, stopping smoking, and practicing good sleep hygiene helps. But often this isn’t enough to fully treat the problem.
An oral night guard is often recommended by doctors and dentists. It can reduce trauma to your tooth enamel caused by grinding. But many patients find it difficult to wear night guards consistently, and even when night guards are consistently worn, the guards do not stop the chewing muscles (masseters) from contracting, which means many of the problems caused by nocturnal biting and chewing persist.
Botox may help save your teeth
Botulinum toxin A can help to reduce problems associated with bruxism. Historically, surgical treatment was used for severe teeth grinding. More recently, many patients are finding relief for their teeth with Botox injections. Botox has long been injected to sculpt the jawline. Injections in this same region of the face are providing much-needed teeth grinding relief for thousands of patients.
Treatment Details
- The amount of Botox needed to achieve therapeutic results varies from person to person. Typically it is 10 to 60 units on each side.
- Injections take effect in around 2 weeks
- Effects of treatment last 3-6 months
- Price for treatment £350