The term ‘bruxism’ refers to the act of unconscious teeth grinding and clenching of the jaw muscles. The condition occurs when awake or asleep but is typically more pronounced during slumber. Over time, it causes not only severe physical pain, dental problems, earaches, enlarged facial muscles, and migraines. Sufferers often wake up with a chronically sore jaw. The condition is believed to be a result of stress and anxiety.
Anti-Wrinkle Injections to Treat Bruxism
Sufferers of bruxism are often faced with wearing night guards during sleep to prevent painful jaw clenching and waking up with a migraine. Unfortunately, the mouth guards are uncomfortable and not very effective at preventing the tooth grinding. Nowadays bruxism sufferers may want to consider obtaining anti-wrinkle injections to treat the discomfort of bruxism and reduce migraine pain.
What are Anti-Wrinkle Injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections made from bacterial toxin botulin have been found to be an effective treatment for bruxism which often causes migraines. It appears to effectively relax the muscles in the neck to prevent the painful spasms that are often associated with both conditions.
Dental Problems Caused from Bruxism
Bruxism causes a variety of dental problems from the chronic jaw clenching and tooth grinding such as:
- Loss of tooth enamel
- Tooth sensitivity
- Chipped teeth
- Flattened tooth surfaces
Migraine Relief with Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Migraines are far more severe than a normal headache and are often debilitating. The pain from migraines occur for a variety of reasons and depend largely on the type of migraine that the person is experiencing. Some individuals suffer from severe one-sided head pain from vascular dilation. However, many individuals have tension-based migraines. Tension-based migraines are caused by muscle spasms and tightening in the neck and face which triggers nerve pain. The botulinum toxin relaxes the muscles in the neck and face but does not paralyze them. It is also believed that the substance reduces the expression of the nerve pathways. The relaxed muscles and nerve pain relief help prevent migraines.
Facial Changes Caused by Bruxism
Over time, bruxism sufferers develop hypertrophy of the masseter muscle. This causes a square jaw appearance. In some cases, one side of the face may appear larger and more pronounced.
Treatment with Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Anti-wrinkle injections made from the botulinum toxin provides instant relief from jaw pain and headaches. It can also improve the appearance of the jawline and render a softer, more visually appealing face.
Understanding Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Anti-wrinkle injections are easily administered in a physician’s office. Small injections will be made directly into the masseter muscle. The injections weaken and relax the muscle to prevent jaw clenching and muscle spasms. Typically, the injections last from three to four months before they must be reapplied.
Side Effects
Side effects of anti-wrinkle injections are rare. They may include slight bruising, redness, and swelling. On rare occasions, there may be muscle pain and weakness.
The medical professionals at the Laser Skin and Vein Clinic are trained in administering anti-wrinkle injections for the treatment of bruxism and the associated migraines. Please call to schedule a consultation today to discuss your treatment options.
