Does Botox help with teeth clenching?

Botulinum toxin applied to the chewing muscles (masseter) can temporarily reduce muscle strength in suitable patients, helping to control pain and tooth wear caused by clenching. The effect is temporary and is usually considered together with a night guard.

How long does the effect of Botox last?

The effect begins within a few days and, although it varies from person to person, usually lasts several months; repeat treatment may be needed.

Dental Botox Istanbul – Bruxism & Gummy Smile

In short: Botulinum toxin is a medicine that temporarily reduces the contraction strength of the muscle it is injected into. In dentistry it is used especially for jaw pain and tooth wear caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), for masseter muscle enlargement and for muscle-related gummy smile. Dr. Dt. Mehmet Fuat Bozaba has completed Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler training at Sahra Academy.

Teeth grinding (bruxism) and Botox

Clenching your teeth during the day or at night can cause tooth wear and fractures, breakage of zirconia and implant-supported prostheses, jaw joint pain, morning headaches and enlargement of the jaw muscles. Treatment usually starts with a custom-made night guard. In suitable patients, botulinum toxin injected into the masseter and temporalis muscles can temporarily reduce muscle strength and help keep symptoms under control.

Before full-arch treatments such as All-on-4 or All-on-6, a strong clenching habit is always assessed; a night guard and, if necessary, muscle treatment are planned to protect the prosthesis.

Gummy smile

Showing too much gum when smiling can have different causes: short teeth, excess gum tissue, jaw structure or overactivity of the muscles that lift the upper lip. In muscle-related cases, a small dose of Botox in the upper lip muscles can reduce how high the lip rises. When the cause is excess gum tissue, gum contouring (crown lengthening) is preferred. The correct cause is identified with a digital smile analysis.

How is the treatment performed?

Examination, palpation of the muscles and assessment of your complaints,
General health questionnaire (not performed in cases such as pregnancy, breastfeeding or neuromuscular diseases),
Injection with a fine needle at the determined points; the procedure is usually short,
The effect begins within a few days; follow-up after 2 weeks.

ℹ️ Botulinum toxin is a prescription medicine. It is administered following a dentist’s examination, for an appropriate indication and within the applicable regulations. Where a permanent solution is required, dental treatments take priority.

Frequently asked questions

Does Botox hurt?

Very fine needles are used; you may feel a brief, mild pinprick.

Will my facial expressions change?

Injections into the chewing muscles do not affect facial expressions; the aim is to reduce the excessive force of the muscle.

Is Botox enough instead of a night guard?

Usually not; the night guard protects the teeth, while Botox reduces muscle force. The two are considered together.

Medical content review: Dr. Dt. Mehmet Fuat BozabaSpecialist in Periodontology · Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler training (Sahra Academy) · Last updated: September 2026

This page is for information purposes only; diagnosis and treatment plans are determined solely by a dentist after an examination.