Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Relieve jaw tension. Reduce clenching. Wake up more comfortably.
Bruxism can lead to jaw pain, aching teeth, headaches, and ongoing tension from repeated clenching or grinding. In suitable patients, carefully placed wrinkle reducing injections into the masseter muscles may help reduce bite force while still preserving normal day-to-day function.
Targets the masseter muscle
Small doses are placed into the chewing muscles to help lessen excessive clenching force.
Quick, in-room treatment
The injections themselves are brief, with numbing cream typically applied beforehand.
Minimal interruption
This is an outpatient treatment and most people can return to normal activities straight away.
Procedure info
About the treatment
On each side of the face is the masseter muscle, a key muscle used for chewing. In some people it becomes overactive through repeated clenching or grinding, especially during sleep. This can contribute to jaw discomfort, aching teeth, and headaches that radiate from the jaw area.
Key benefits
- May reduce the strength of night-time grinding and jaw clenching.
- Can help ease jaw aching, tension, and related headaches.
- Preserves normal function while softening excessive bite force.
- Offers a non-surgical treatment option when used alongside dental and lifestyle support.
What this treatment may help with
Patients commonly seek support for symptoms linked to night-time clenching and overactive jaw muscles.
Your appointment journey
Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, assess the jaw area, and decide whether wrinkle reducing injections are a suitable part of your management plan. The injections are precisely placed into the masseter muscles after numbing cream is applied.
Consultation & assessment
We review your symptoms, jaw tension, and whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
Mapping & numbing
The treatment areas are marked and local anaesthetic cream is usually left on for around 10 minutes.
Precise injections
A series of tiny injections is placed into the correct position in the masseter muscles, usually in just a few minutes.
Return to your day
This is an outpatient procedure, so most patients return to normal daily activities immediately afterwards.
Results to expect
The treated muscles generally begin to relax within a few days. Many patients notice improvement in clenching-related symptoms as the bite force softens, while normal function is maintained. Repeat sessions may be needed to maintain the effect.
Frequently asked questions
Tap a question to expand.
What does the treatment involve?
After an assessment, the doctor identifies the best treatment points in the masseter area. Numbing cream is usually applied first, followed by a series of tiny injections placed precisely into the muscle.
Is the procedure painful, and how long does it take?
The procedure is generally very well tolerated. With numbing cream, many people describe the injections as only mildly uncomfortable. The injection portion is brief, and the full consultation is usually around 30 minutes.
How long does it take to work?
The muscles usually start relaxing after about 4 days, although individual response can vary slightly.
How long do the effects last?
Results commonly last around 4 months. Depending on muscle strength and your response, repeat treatment is often needed every 3 to 4 months initially, and sometimes less often over time.
Is this the first treatment I should consider for teeth grinding?
No. Dental support such as mouth guards and management of contributing factors like stress are important. This treatment is usually considered an additional option rather than the first step on its own.
Is it safe?
Your doctor will assess whether this treatment is suitable for you. Temporary bruising can occasionally occur, and any uncommon risks or precautions will be discussed with you before treatment.
Questions about teeth grinding treatment?
Chat to us and we’ll help you understand whether this option is right for you.