Treatment of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) with Botox
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a medical term that refers to a problem in which teeth are unconsciously grinded while awake or asleep, which can lead to physical pain and serious dental problems. Chronic teeth grinding can cause headaches, earaches, facial pain, and even migraines.
Dental problems caused by bruxism include loss of tooth enamel, increased tooth sensitivity, and flattening and/or cracking of teeth. Bruxism patients, who clench their teeth while sleeping and clenching them while awake, often complain of jaw pain.
Hypertrophy, which occurs when the jaw muscles become stronger and thicker, is another side effect of bruxism.
Botulinum toxin is used in the treatment of external grinding with Botox.
Type A Botulinum Toxin or commonly known as botulinum toxin treatments; It provides very effective relief in the treatment of jaw pain, headaches and other unpleasant problems associated with bruxism. In addition to bruxism, botulinum toxin treatments also help soften the appearance of the jawline.
By injecting small doses of botulinum toxin directly into the masseter muscle (the large muscle that moves the jaw), the muscle is weakened enough to stop the involuntary grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw. This significantly relaxes the muscles and reduces the wear and tear on the teeth caused by grinding.
Damage to the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) and causing headaches is reduced or eliminated. Voluntary movements such as chewing and facial expressions are completely unaffected by botox injection.
Although botulinum toxin injections are not a permanent cure for bruxism, they can provide some patients with the ability to effectively control the bothersome symptoms of nocturnal teeth grinding.
Botulinum toxin used to treat bruxism typically lasts three to four months. At the end of this period, botox injection must be repeated by experts.
