Teeth grinding and jaw clenching, also known as bruxism, is a common problem that affects many people, often during sleep, while concentrating, or under stress. Many individuals who grind their teeth or clench their jaw are unaware that they are doing so. This behaviour can lead to various symptoms, including headaches, ear pain, pain and stiffness in the jaw (temporomandibular joint), worn-down teeth, increased tooth sensitivity, and broken teeth.

Frequent grinding and clenching can also cause enlargement of the masseter muscles, which are the main muscles involved in teeth grinding and clenching. The masseters sit over the jaw and can be felt when clenching the back teeth.

Thankfully, there is a safe and effective treatment for this condition. Injections can be administered to the masseter muscles to weaken them, which can reduce teeth grinding and jaw clenching, resulting in an improvement in associated symptoms. These injections are minimally invasive and are generally well-tolerated by most patients. They can also be a valuable treatment option for those who have difficulty managing their bruxism with traditional approaches, such as mouthguards or behavioural changes.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of teeth grinding and jaw clenching, it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider or a qualified aesthetic practitioner whether injections could be a suitable option for you.