Botox can relax the masseter, the large muscle at the angle of the jaw that tightens when you clench or grind your teeth. At Sage Dermatology in downtown Toronto, our physicians use Botox (botulinum toxin type A) for jaw clenching, tension in the jaw muscle, and a square or prominent lower face caused by an enlarged masseter.
Who it is for
People who clench or grind their teeth, wake with jaw tightness or tension headaches, or have a wide lower face from muscle bulk. It is not a treatment for jaw pain from a joint problem or a dental cause. If that may be your situation, we will say so and suggest you see your dentist.
How it works
The masseter is injected on both sides of the jaw. With the muscle relaxed, clenching force falls and an enlarged muscle gradually slims over several weeks. This is a different use from lines on the upper face, and the dose is higher, so the cost is higher than for a small area.
An off-label use
Health Canada has not approved Botox for jaw clenching or masseter reduction. Physicians use it this way routinely, and we explain this before treatment.
What to expect
The injections cause brief stinging. Appointments take about 30 minutes and there is no downtime. The effect builds over two to four weeks and typically lasts three to four months. Repeat treatments can make the effect last longer. Avoid strenuous exercise and rubbing the area for the rest of the day.
Risks
Bruising and a temporary headache are the most common effects. Chewing very tough food may feel weaker for a few weeks. A change in the smile is uncommon and temporary. The physician reviews risks with you before treatment, including whether Botox is suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Cost and coverage
Botox is priced per unit, and masseter treatment takes more units than lines on the upper face. We confirm the number of units and the total cost at your consultation, before any treatment. Cosmetic Botox is not covered by OHIP.
Booking
Call 416.792.0159 or email info@sagedermatology.ca. No referral is needed for cosmetic treatment. Sage Dermatology is at 591 Yonge Street, Units 202 and 203, steps from Wellesley subway station, with underground parking on Gloucester Street.