What Are the Potential Side Effects of Jaw Botox?
Potential Side Effects of Jaw Botox
The clenching and grinding of the jaw, known as bruxism, is a common problem causing tension, headaches, and even teeth damage. Fortunately, new research suggests that masseter Botox injections can be a safe and effective treatment for the disorder.
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, Jaw Botox can help alleviate pain from bruxism by reducing muscle movement in the masseter muscles of the jaw. The injections work by blocking the nerve signals from reaching the muscle, which in turn reduces the frequency and intensity of jaw clenching and grinding.
Those suffering from bruxism often grind and clench their teeth as a result of stress, anxiety, or frustration. The resulting tension causes the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to become inflamed, leading to TMJ disorders. In addition to being painful, TMJ disorders can also cause facial pain and damage teeth and gums. A study of bruxism and TMJ disorders conducted by Baylor College of Medicine showed that patients who received masseter Botox had improved symptoms and reduced clenching.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Jaw Botox?
Botox is injected into the masseter muscles using a small needle. A numbing agent is usually applied to the area before the injections, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. The procedure takes just 15 minutes, and patients can resume their daily activities right away.
To perform the procedure, the doctor will assess each side of the face to determine the amount of hypertrophy in the masseter muscle. Then, the doctor will inject the Botox into the “belly” of the muscle on both sides of the face, typically three injections on each side to evenly distribute the medication throughout the muscle. Immediately after the injection, the patient will begin to feel the effects of the medication as the muscles become weaker and less tense.
Over time, the muscle will atrophies, and it will appear thinner, making the jaw line more slender. Some patients may have naturally large masseter muscles, while others may develop hypertrophy as a result of chewing gum or other habits, such as teeth grinding. The results from masseter Botox are typically seen within a week, and patients will continue to experience relief from their clenching and grinding while seeing cosmetic benefits in the shape of their lower face.
While jaw Botox can be an excellent treatment for TMJ, it is important to see an experienced injector who is familiar with the treatment. Inexperienced injectors could end up affecting other muscles in the jaw and face, causing asymmetry in the smile. They can also accidentally inject the medication into the salivary glands, causing dry mouth for a couple of weeks.
Many patients who began jaw Botox for TMJ purposes have found that they enjoy the aesthetic results and have continued to receive it as a regular treatment for both cosmetic and functional reasons. For those who are interested in improving the appearance of their jaw and neckline, masseter Botox is an easy and affordable option that can make a significant difference in your overall appearance.