Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) Leeds
Causes & Treatment Options
Bruxism – the grinding or clenching of teeth, most often during sleep – is more common than many people realise. It can cause significant dental wear, jaw pain, headaches, and disturbed sleep. Untreated, it progressively damages the teeth and can lead to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. Botulinum toxin offers an effective, non-dental approach to reducing the muscular activity responsible.
What Causes Bruxism?
Stress and anxiety
The most commonly associated factor; clenching and grinding often increase during periods of stress.
Sleep disorders
Bruxism is associated with sleep apnoea and other sleep disturbances.
Malocclusion
An uneven bite can contribute to habitual jaw clenching.
Stimulants
Caffeine and certain medications can increase the tendency to grind.
Genetics
There is a familial component to bruxism.
Treatments at Dr Sebastian Bejma Aesthetics
Botulinum Toxin – Masseter Injection
Botulinum toxin injected into the masseter muscle – the large chewing muscle at the angle of the jaw – reduces its activity, significantly decreasing the force of grinding and clenching. This relieves jaw pain, reduces headaches associated with bruxism, and over time reduces the bulk of the masseter muscle, which has an aesthetic benefit of softening the lower face.
The treatment is temporary and requires maintenance approximately every four to six months. It does not address the underlying cause of bruxism – dental assessment and, where appropriate, a night guard remain important components of overall management.
The treatment is temporary and requires maintenance approximately every four to six months. It does not address the underlying cause of bruxism – dental assessment and, where appropriate, a night guard remain important components of overall management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) Leeds
Suffering from jaw clenching, teeth grinding, or related headaches?
Book a consultation with Dr Sebastian Bejma to discuss whether masseter botulinum toxin is appropriate for you.
Not ready to book yet?
If you have questions or would like to talk it through first, send us a message and we will be in touch.
If you have questions or would like to talk it through first, send us a message and we will be in touch.