What is bruxism?

Symptoms of bruxism can be diverse, including both teeth grinding and jaw clenching. These phenomena can occur at any time of day or night, but most commonly during sleep. Additionally, they are often accompanied by headaches resulting from muscle tension and hypertrophy of the masseter muscle. In individuals affected by this condition, pain in the temporomandibular joints and noticeable excessive enamel wear may occur. The face may appear more square, not due to anatomy, but due to teeth clenching issues.

The causes of bruxism are quite complex:

• stress or strong emotions,
• malocclusion,
• excessive consumption of caffeine,
• substance abuse.

There are many ways to treat bruxism, but one of the most effective methods is the administration of Botox in specific areas of the face.

Treatment of bruxism with botulinum toxin involves the use of botulinum toxin, which inhibits nerve impulses transmitted to the jaw muscles. As a result, these muscles relax, reducing tension, thus reducing uncontrollable behaviors such as teeth grinding or jaw clenching. The procedure is performed by a cosmetic medicine doctor after a thorough assessment of the patient's health and adjusting the appropriate amount of toxin.

The treatment process includes the following stages:

• pre-treatment medical consultation,
• administration of botulinum toxin with a thin needle directly into the jaw muscles,
• muscle relaxation and significant relief of bruxism symptoms.

Botulinum toxin works by blocking nerve impulses, resulting in the relaxation of the jaw muscles, reducing their uncontrolled activity. The procedure reduces teeth grinding and jaw clenching, as well as alleviates headaches and tinnitus caused by bruxism. However, the effect is temporary and usually requires repetition every few months. Typically, results become visible after a few days, with the full effect of the toxin observed after about two weeks.

The use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of bruxism primarily helps in relaxing the jaw muscles. This results in reducing the frequency or completely eliminating the problem of teeth grinding. The jaw is relaxed, and its contour is softened. Patients experience relief from pain and improved quality of life. The main advantages of using botulinum toxin for bruxism are:

• quick results, with initial effects appearing after a few days,
• full effect of the treatment can be seen after about 2 weeks,
• to maintain the effect, it is recommended to repeat the procedure every 4-6 months,
• elimination of pain and discomfort associated with uncontrolled teeth clenching.

Adults affected by bruxism who do not find relief in traditional methods such as relaxation splints, physiotherapy, and other forms of treatment may consider using botox. This solution is particularly recommended for individuals with severe teeth grinding or involuntary jaw clenching. Botox provides quick relief, which is crucial for those dealing with chronic pain and discomfort. However, it is important to consult with a doctor before the procedure. Such a visit helps assess the patient's health condition and discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with this form of therapy.

Treatment of bruxism using Botox begins with a consultation with a doctor who assesses the patient's overall health. Once qualified for the procedure, the specialist proceeds with its implementation. To completely eliminate discomfort, the skin can be numbed with a cream. Then, the doctor marks the injection sites and injects the toxin directly into the jaw muscles using a thin needle, leading to their weakening and reduced tension.

The procedure is quick and minimally invasive, and patients can almost immediately return to their daily activities. Occasionally, minor symptoms such as redness or slight swelling at the injection site may occur, but this does not interfere with daily functioning.

The cost of treating bruxism with botulinum toxin may vary depending on the clinic's location and the amount of the used preparation. Before starting the procedure, costs are discussed in detail by the doctor. It is worth remembering that this is a procedure that should be repeated only after a few months, which gives a significant advantage over other methods of dealing with bruxism.

Before the procedure, it is advisable to consult a doctor who will assess individual needs and determine the exact amount of the preparation affecting the final cost of the service.

Not everyone is recommended to use Botox for treating bruxism. People allergic to any component of the preparation should avoid the procedure. Additionally, autoimmune diseases can affect the body's reaction to botulinum toxin, which is also a contraindication for its use. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, individuals with blood clotting problems, and people with an infection at the planned treatment site should also refrain from bruxism treatment with Botox.

Furthermore, it is important to remember that some medications can alter the effect of botulinum toxin or increase the risk of side effects. For this reason, individuals taking medication should consult with a doctor beforehand. It is crucial that decisions regarding the use of Botox are made by a qualified specialist after a thorough review of the patient's health condition.

After botulinum toxin treatment for bruxism, the following effects may occur:

• bruising,
• redness,
• swelling,
• discomfort at the injection site,
• increased sensitivity to touch.

Fortunately, these effects are harmless and typically disappear naturally within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. If any concerning symptoms arise, it is advisable to consult with the individual who performed the treatment.

Treating bruxism with Botox does not require a long recovery period, allowing patients to almost immediately return to their daily responsibilities. This is especially important for individuals with busy schedules. Any minor discomfort, such as redness or slight swelling at the injection site, quickly subsides, usually within a few hours. However, it is essential to follow post-procedural recommendations to achieve the best therapeutic results and minimize the risk of complications. On the day of receiving Botox, it is advised not to touch the face, avoid lying on the side, refrain from physical activities, sauna, and sunbathing. Massaging the jaw muscles is prohibited as it may cause the migration of the product.

1. Piech, P., Sudzińska, H., Pietrak, J., Kozioł, M., Maślanko, M., Wilczyńska, K., Kozioł, J., & Łuczyk, R. (2017). Botulinum toxin in bruxism treatment. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.833338