Masseter Botox

The masseter is the muscle that closes your jaw. In people who clench or grind it can become enlarged, squaring the lower face and putting force through the teeth. Botulinum toxin injected into the muscle reduces its strength, which slims the jawline over a few weeks and takes load off the teeth and joint.

How it's done

1. 01

   Assessment

   The surgeon palpates the muscle while you clench to judge size and injection points.

2. 02

   Injection

   Several small injections per side, into the muscle belly. It takes a few minutes.

3. 03

   Review

   Effect builds over two to four weeks. A top-up is sometimes given at review.

Who it suits

People with a heavy square jaw from muscle bulk, and clenchers whose new crowns or veneers need protecting.

Where it falls short

Temporary — it wears off over three to six months. It also does not stop grinding itself, so a night guard is still needed.

Recovery

None. Mild tenderness on chewing for a few days.