Bruxism
Waking up with headaches or jaw pain shouldn’t be your normal. Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, affects your sleep, damages your teeth, and causes persistent discomfort. Many people grind their teeth without realising it, only noticing the consequences later. At Dr N Clinics, Dr Nugwa offers effective botulinum toxin treatment to relax overactive jaw muscles and provide lasting relief. This minimally invasive approach stops the grinding, relieves the pain, and protects your teeth from further damage.
What is Bruxism
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching. Some people grind their teeth during sleep without any awareness, whilst others clench their jaw during the day as a habit. Over years, this constant grinding takes a serious toll. You might develop chronic headaches, particularly in the mornings. The jaw muscles become painful and tight, making eating uncomfortable. Some people experience clicking or popping in the jaw joint. The teeth themselves suffer damage too. Grinding can crack teeth, wear down enamel, and cause dental problems that require expensive repairs. The muscles used for grinding, particularly the masseter muscles on the sides of your jaw, become overdeveloped and constantly tense.
Treatment options
- Botulinum toxin injections for jaw muscles
- Masseter muscle relaxation treatment
- Headache and jaw pain relief approach
- Facial slimming as secondary benefit
Key benefits
Bruxism treatment addresses multiple problems caused by teeth grinding.
- Stops teeth grinding and clenching
- Relieves chronic jaw pain and headaches
- Protects teeth from further damage
- Relaxes overactive jaw muscles
- Improves eating comfort
- Results last approximately four months
- Minimally invasive with no downtime
How long does the treatment last?
Botulinum toxin treatment for bruxism typically lasts about four months. During this time, the jaw muscles remain relaxed, unable to clench and grind with their usual force. You’ll notice relief from headaches and jaw pain within days to two weeks after treatment.
As the effect gradually wears off after several months, you might notice grinding returning. Most clients choose to have the treatment refreshed every four months to maintain their relief. Some find that regular treatment helps break the grinding habit over time. The treatment isn’t permanent, but it provides consistent, reliable relief when maintained regularly.
Treatment Options for Bruxism
Botulinum Toxin Masseter Injections
Primary treatment targeting the muscles responsible for grinding.
- Reduces strength of jaw muscles used for clenching
- Provides approximately four months of relief
- Quick procedure with minimal discomfort
Headache and Jaw Pain Relief
Addresses the painful symptoms caused by chronic grinding.
- Relieves morning headaches and migraines
- Reduces jaw tension and discomfort
- Improves comfort when eating and speaking
Facial Slimming Effect
Secondary aesthetic benefit for some clients.
- Relaxes overdeveloped masseter muscles
- Creates more streamlined jawline
- Reduces square jaw appearance
Preventative Dental Protection
Stops damage before it becomes severe.
- Prevents further tooth cracking and wear
- Protects dental work and enamel
- Reduces need for expensive dental repairs
At a glance
Treatment time
The injection procedure takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This includes assessing your jaw muscles, marking injection points, and performing the injections. The actual injection process takes just a few minutes.
Anaesthetic
Not required, treatment involves minimal discomfort
Recovery time
None, return to normal activities immediately
Duration of result
Approximately four months
Sessions
Single treatment, can be refreshed every four months
Results
Relief typically begins within days to two weeks
Aftercare
Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area for 24 hours. Stay upright for four hours after treatment. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours. Do not lie down flat for four hours post-treatment. Normal eating and drinking can resume immediately, though chewing may feel slightly different initially.
Prices
Bruxism treatment is £400.
Dr Nugwa will discuss the expected treatment frequency and any other details during your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
If you would like to discuss any concerns with your provider or have any other questions regarding your medical history, please get in touch.
Will the injections change my face shape?
The injections relax overactive jaw muscles, which can actually create a more streamlined, less square jawline. Some clients notice a gentle slimming effect, particularly if the masseter muscles were overdeveloped from years of grinding.
Does the treatment hurt?
The injections cause minimal discomfort. Most clients describe feeling small pinpricks. The procedure is quick and well-tolerated without anaesthetic.
How quickly will I feel relief?
Most people notice improvement within a few days to two weeks. Headaches typically reduce first, followed by decreased jaw tension and pain.
Will I still be able to chew normally?
Yes, absolutely. The treatment reduces the excessive force used for grinding, but normal chewing function remains intact. You’ll still be able to eat all foods comfortably.
Can this treatment stop me grinding permanently?
The botulinum toxin effect is temporary, lasting about four months. However, regular treatment can help break the grinding habit over time. Some clients find they grind less even between treatments.
What if I grind during the day and night?
The treatment works for both daytime clenching and nighttime grinding. It relaxes the jaw muscles regardless of when the grinding habit occurs.
Why choose Dr N Clinics?
Dr Nugwa understands that bruxism affects more than just your teeth. The constant pain, poor sleep, and dental damage impact your quality of life. Her precise injection technique targets the specific muscles causing your grinding without affecting normal jaw function. You’ll receive clear guidance on what to expect and when to schedule follow-up treatments. Many clients find relief they haven’t experienced in years, finally waking up without headaches and jaw pain. Dr Nugwa’s goal is simple, help you achieve a relaxed, comfortable, healthy smile.