Bruxism is the increased and uncontrolled activity of the masseter muscles that causes pathological friction of the teeth, resulting in teeth grinding. Very often it manifests itself during sleep. Patients also complain of headaches caused by clenching the jaw too tightly.
Untreated, it causes a number of consequences, including:
– damage to enamel and teeth
– abrasion of dental crowns
– loosening of teeth in the mandible
– inflammatory and degenerative changes
– headache
– proliferation of the masseter muscles, manifested by a hypertrophied facial oval often referred to as the “square face”
What are the effects of the treatment?
The use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of bruxism allows:
– relieve muscle tension
– feel better
– relieve headache, neck, temple and back pain
– prevent teeth grinding
– slim the lower part of the face
– prevent damage to enamel and teeth
Who is the treatment intended for?
The treatment is intended for people of all ages who report a problem of excessive tightening of the masseter muscles, complain of teeth grinding, the occurrence of headaches and neck pain, as well as people in whom the so-called “square face” (excessively broadened in the lower part) can be observed.
What does the procedure involve?
The treatment is preceded by a thorough consultation with a doctor to select the appropriate therapeutic dose of the product. The procedure is virtually painless. The entire procedure takes about 20 minutes. It involves the intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin, using a thin needle. It is a substance that can only be administered by an experienced and qualified doctor, as it is a registered drug. Its function is to inhibit nerve neurotransmission, resulting in a decrease in the strength of the masseter muscle.
How will you feel after the treatment?
It is a procedure that does not require a recovery period. The patient can return to daily activities immediately after the injection. Weakening of muscle tension occurs about a week after administration.
A mild swelling may persist right after the procedure, which usually passes after a few hours. Within a few days after the procedure, we recommend limiting alcohol consumption, use of saunas, hot tubs and tanning beds. It is also worth limiting physical activity for a few days.
Contraindications and side effects
Any medical procedure, including aesthetics, is fraught with the risk of side effects due to its invasiveness. The safety and comfort of the patient is our priority, so we make every effort to minimize risks at every step and immediately and professionally counteract possible complications. Exact information on each procedure, its course, preparation and possible side effects, is discussed at the consultation appointment preceding the procedure.
The main contraindications are:
– hypersensitivity to botulinum toxin or to any of the drug’s excipients
– generalized muscle dysfunction (e.g., myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome)
– the presence of infection or inflammation at the site of the planned injection
pregnancy and lactation period
Side effects can usually be observed in the first week and are transient in nature. Local pain, tenderness, itching, swelling and/or hematoma may occur after botulinum toxin application.