TEETH GRINDING

You may be a good candidate for treatment if you wake with jaw tightness, temple or ear pain, tension headaches, or if your dentist has noted tooth wear, fractures, or bite stress consistent with bruxism. During your consultation, Dr. Copeland will assess jaw muscle bulk, areas of tenderness, your bite mechanics, and your dental history—including whether you currently use or have used a night guard.

For appropriate candidates, we create a conservative, anatomically targeted plan using Botox® to reduce excessive clenching while preserving normal chewing function. Most patients begin noticing relief within 3–7 days, with peak improvement around 2–4 weeks. Results typically last 3–4 months initially, extending to 4–6 months with regular treatment. Chewing remains unaffected, though a mild “chewing fatigue” can occur for a week or two as the overactive muscle relaxes.

Reducing overactive jaw muscles can significantly decrease clenching intensity and nighttime grinding, easing the strain placed on the teeth, jaw joints, and surrounding muscles. Many patients experience meaningful relief from jaw and temple pain, fewer tension headaches, and improved comfort upon waking.

By limiting chronic grinding forces, treatment can also help protect teeth from further wear, cracks, and stress on dental restorations, supporting long-term oral health. As an added aesthetic benefit, relaxing an enlarged masseter muscle can soften a bulky or square jawline, creating a more refined facial contour over time.

Botox® for Bruxism (Primary Treatment)

How it works:

Botox® reduces excessive clenching by calming the overactive masseter and temporalis muscles, decreasing bite force while preserving normal chewing and expression.

Placement:

Dr. Copeland uses precise, micro-mapped injection points and a conservative, anatomically guided approach to avoid over-weakening the muscles while still providing effective relief.

Onset & duration:

Most patients feel improvement within 3–7 days, with peak relief at 2–4 weeks. Results typically last 3–4 months initially, often extending to 4–6 months with regular treatments as the muscle gradually decompresses.

Downtime & comfort:

The procedure takes only a few minutes and involves tiny pinpricks with minimal discomfort. Mild tenderness or temporary chewing fatigue—especially with tough foods—may occur for a week or two as the muscle adapts.

Helpful Adjuncts (As Needed)

Night guard

If recommended by your dentist, a custom night guard can help protect teeth from friction, wear, and fractures—especially when clenching is severe.

Lifestyle strategies

Stress management, improving sleep quality, minimizing gum chewing, and reducing very chewy foods can support long-term symptom control.

Aesthetic refinement

If masseter slimming is a desired secondary benefit, targeted skincare, laser treatments, or additional facial contouring options may complement your functional results.