Masseter Muscle Treatment: A Solution for Teeth Grinding and Jaw Relief

At Hazel Clinic, under the expertise of Dr. Susana Fontana, we provide advanced treatments for various functional and aesthetic concerns, including the use of botulinum toxin in the masseter muscle. This treatment not only addresses teeth grinding (bruxism) but also offers aesthetic benefits by redefining facial contours.

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a condition characterized by the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often occurring at night but sometimes during the day. This habit can lead to several issues, including:

• Jaw pain or stiffness.

• Facial or ear pain.

• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth.

• Morning headaches or neck tension.

• A broader jawline caused by hypertrophy of the masseter muscle.

How Does Botulinum Toxin Help with Bruxism?

Botulinum toxin works as a muscle relaxant by blocking the nerve signals that activate the masseter muscle. When injected into specific points of the masseter:

• It reduces involuntary muscle activity.

• Alleviates symptoms such as jaw tension, headaches, and facial pain.

• Over time, the decreased muscle activity can lead to atrophy (shrinking), resulting in a slimmer and more defined jawline.

The Treatment Process at Hazel Clinic

1. Initial Consultation:
   Dr. Susana will perform a detailed assessment of your face and jaw to understand your specific needs and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the treatment.

2. During the Procedure:

   • A topical anesthetic is applied to ensure comfort.

   • Botulinum toxin is precisely injected into targeted areas of the masseter muscle (and, if necessary, the temporal muscle).

   • The procedure is quick, typically taking around 20 minutes.

3. Post-Treatment:

   • No downtime is required; you can resume your daily activities immediately.

   • It is recommended to avoid pressing or rubbing the treated area and refrain from intense exercise for the first 24 hours.

Results and Duration

Results start to become noticeable within 4 to 7 days, with the full effect visible around 2 weeks post-treatment. The results typically last between 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual. Maintenance sessions are advised to sustain the benefits.

Additional Benefits

Aside from relieving the symptoms of bruxism, botulinum toxin in the masseter muscle can also:

• Slim and contour the face: Reduce the appearance of a broad jaw caused by an overactive masseter.

• Relieve headaches: By alleviating tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles.

• Balance facial proportions: Achieve a more harmonious and refined look.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this treatment safe?
   Yes, botulinum toxin is a safe and effective treatment when performed by qualified professionals like Dr. Susana at Hazel Clinic.

2. Is the procedure painful?
   The procedure is virtually painless due to the topical anesthetic applied beforehand.

3. How long does the treatment take?
   The entire procedure takes around 20 minutes, with no recovery time required.

Conclusion

Botulinum toxin treatment in the masseter muscle not only provides relief from bruxism but also enhances quality of life and facial aesthetics. At Hazel Clinic, Dr. Susana Fontana ensures a professional and personalized approach to deliver optimal results tailored to your needs.

Do you suffer from teeth grinding or want to contour your face? Book a consultation with us and discover how this transformative treatment can help you.