Long Beach Medical Spa

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism is defined as Excessive grinding of the teeth or clenching of the jaw.

This condition can affect adults and children, and can occur during day or night.

 Symptoms

• Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to wake up your sleep partner.
• Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped or loose.
• Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth.
• Increased tooth pain or sensitivity.
• Tired or tight jaw muscles, or a locked jaw that won't open or close completely.

Treatment

 By injecting small doses of botulinum toxin directly into the masseter muscle (the large muscle that moves the jaw), the muscle is weakened enough to stop involuntary grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw. This significantly relaxes the muscle and reduces the wear and tear on the teeth due to grinding.