Finally pain-free: Botulinum toxin A works against teeth grinding

What is bruxism?

Approximately one in five people in Germany suffers from bruxism. This is the medical term for what is commonly referred to as teeth grinding. Those affected clench their teeth, tensing the masseter muscle (the chewing muscle) intensely, often without realizing it, as most patients grind their teeth while sleeping. They frequently wake up with a headache in the morning. Stress and constant tension can also contribute to bruxism and, in the worst-case scenario, damage the teeth through the continuous grinding.

Botox for teeth grinding

Injections with botulinum toxin A (often abbreviated as Botox) have proven effective in treating masseter muscle pain. The active ingredient relaxes the chewing muscles, thereby protecting the temporomandibular joint and providing overall relief. Patients no longer grind their teeth and consequently experience fewer dental problems. Headaches caused by bruxism can also be prevented with botulinum toxin A. At Löwen Ästhetik in Braunschweig, Dr. G. Felix Brölsch uses products from the manufacturers Vistabel® and Bocouture®.

Treatment by a specialist

crucial for deciding on Botox therapy for teeth grinding . This diagnosis can be made by a dentist, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or a German board-certified specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery . Dr. G. Felix Brölsch of Löwen Ästhetik in Braunschweig is highly experienced and has been treating patients with teeth grinding for many years. He says, "Injections with botulinum toxin A are very well tolerated and take effect quickly. Depending on the severity of the masseter muscle issue, the effect lasts up to six months."

The more often the treatment is repeated, the more lasting the relaxation, because over time the therapy also reduces the size of the chewing muscle. "This doesn't cause any disadvantages for patients. They can continue to eat and speak as usual," explains Dr. Brölsch. "My experience is that most bruxism patients develop a very good sense of when the effect of the Botox injection is wearing off and schedule a follow-up appointment with us at our specialist practice for plastic and aesthetic surgery in Braunschweig."

How much does Botox therapy for bruxism cost?

Since each chewing muscle is individually developed and the symptoms also vary, only a thorough examination by a specialist can determine the amount of botulinum toxin A units required to achieve the desired treatment outcome . Dr. Brölsch explains: "Generally, between 25 and 50 units per side are needed. The cost for a Consultation and treatment starts at €400." In principle, any bruxism patient can undergo treatment. However, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and individuals with a known botulinum toxin intolerance are excluded.

Would you like to learn more? Then please contact the team at Löwen Ästhetik and Dr. Brölsch or write to us.