Jaw clenching, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can cause headaches, facial pain, and excessive tooth wear. Many people clench or grind their teeth due to stress, misaligned bites, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, leading to long-term dental complications.Â
At Exceptional Dentistry of the Golden Isles, Dr. Robert Lancaster, a Brunswick native and distinguished graduate of Augusta University’s Dental College of Georgia, and Dr. Angela Britt, an expert in neuromuscular dentistry and an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, provide advanced treatment solutions.Â
One effective, non-invasive option is Botox, which helps relax overactive jaw muscles and relieve discomfort. Botox may be the solution you need if you are struggling with jaw clenching.
Jaw Clenching and Its Impact
Jaw clenching occurs when the muscles responsible for chewing become overactive, causing excessive tension. This condition can happen during the day or while sleeping, often without the person realizing it. Over time, this can lead to persistent jaw pain, soreness, and tension headaches. Many individuals also experience increased tooth sensitivity, difficulty chewing, and even a clicking or popping sound in the jaw joint.
If left untreated, chronic jaw clenching can lead to more serious dental concerns, including worn-down enamel, cracked teeth, and even TMJ disorders. Without treatment, these issues may worsen over time, causing ongoing discomfort and costly dental repairs. Seeking care as soon as symptoms arise can help prevent these complications.
How Botox Helps with Jaw Clenching
Botox is best known for its cosmetic applications, but it has also proven to be an effective medical treatment for conditions that involve muscle tension. Botox works for patients struggling with jaw clenching by relaxing the overactive jaw muscles, reducing the intensity of clenching, and preventing associated pain.
Small doses of Botox are administered into the masseter muscle to relax overactive jaw movements. By temporarily relaxing this muscle, Botox helps relieve tension without affecting essential jaw functions like chewing and speaking. Most patients notice improvements within a few days, with full effects developing over two weeks. The results typically last three to four months, at which point a follow-up treatment can be scheduled.
Many individuals choose Botox for jaw clenching because it provides effective relief without surgery or downtime. Unlike mouthguards, which only protect teeth from grinding damage, Botox addresses the root cause of excessive muscle activity. Additionally, for those who experience jaw pain due to TMJ disorders, Botox may provide relief by preventing the muscle overuse that exacerbates the condition.
Find Relief from Jaw Clenching in Brunswick, GA
Botox may be the solution you need if you are experiencing jaw clenching and looking for a safe, non-invasive treatment option. At Exceptional Dentistry of the Golden Isles, we offer Botox therapy to help patients find relief from jaw pain, tension headaches, and other symptoms associated with bruxism.Â
To learn more about Botox for jaw clenching and to schedule your consultation, call us today at 912-264-5550. Our office in Brunswick, GA, is ready to help you take the next step toward a more comfortable and pain-free life.
