Many people immediately associate Botox with reducing wrinkles and preserving healthy, youthful skin. But did you know Botox can be used as a very effective bruxism treatment ? A Botox treatment can do wonders for reducing the tension along the jawline that causes bruxism, preventing you from experiencing intense pain or the worry of wearing away the enamel on your precious teeth.

Continue reading to learn how this cosmetic treatment can alleviate your jaw pain.

What is bruxism ? 

It is a medical condition characterized by regular, unconscious jaw clenching or teeth grinding. Bruxism can cause numerous painful issues, such as jaw pain, tight mouth muscles, migraines, earaches, gum sensitivity, and damage to your teeth. Additionally, prolonged clenching of your jaw can cause it to take on an unsightly square shape.

You may be unwillingly causing damage to your teeth while you sleep, causing further damage to your enamel. Mouthguards are usually used to solve this issue, but it doesn’t permanently fix it. The best way to tackle the problem is to go to the root cause.

Causes of bruxism

Many factors can cause you to develop bruxism, but the most prevalent one is leading a stressful lifestyle. Stress can cause your body to tense up in response to a stressful situation or anxiety, and many people carry this tension in their jaw. Another emotional factor that causes bruxism is feeling lots of rage or anger in your daily life. These emotions can often lead you to grit your teeth, which further acerbates bruxism. 

If you suffer from sleep apnea, you will most likely develop some form of bruxism. Furthermore, certain medications used to treat depression, such as anti-depressants, can increase your chances of developing it. 

The effectiveness and safety of botox for bruxism treatment 

Injections of Botox are very effective at relieving the pain and discomfort brought on by bruxism. The masseter muscle can be relaxed to lessen dental stress and subsequent tooth damage.

The side effects of Botox for bruxism are generally minor. You may experience a slightly crooked smile or soreness at the injection site. But those symptoms tend to go away soon after. You will also notice your jawline will appear slimmer. 

Furthermore, be aware that frequent and extensive use of Botox treatment could result in a loss of bone density. Using Botox in low doses and on a short-term will not cause bone density loss. Discuss with your doctor if this treatment is right for you, and understand the risks involved. 

The results of Botox can last for up to three months, but the non-invasive cosmetic procedure can be repeated to relieve aches, pains, and damage along the jaw and teeth.

How botox compares to other bruxism treatment 

You can be suggested other forms of treatment for bruxism, such as biofeedback and behavioural therapy. Auricular acupuncture and relaxation techniques, which can ease jaw muscle tension, have also been met with success in treating bruxism in some patients.

For people who often grind their teeth at night, doctors have recommended coming up with a healthy nighttime routine sans caffeine consumption, anything to stimulate the mind, like bright screens an hour before you sleep, and trying to sleep in a comfortable position that will discourage the teeth grinding. You may also use a mouthguard, a more budget-friendly alternative to botox treatments. 

Treat your bruxism today!

Living with chronic pain in your jaw is no way to go through life. Give yourself some much-needed relief by using our services . Call us at 403-457-1900 or complete our online contact form to set up your first appointment. 

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