Anti-wrinkle treatment for bruxism refers to a small dose of muscle-relaxing medicine (botulinum toxin type A) placed into the masseter — the main chewing muscle — to reduce the force of night-time grinding and jaw clenching. A weaker contraction means less wear on teeth, less jaw ache, and fewer tension headaches. It works for around four to six months per treatment. At Dental & Wellness London we rarely use it alone — it pairs with a custom night guard.
What it actually treats — and what it doesn't
Relaxing the masseter, as covered on our masseter treatment page, does not stop you grinding; it reduces how hard you grind. Bruxism is a nervous-system-driven behaviour that no injection switches off.
How it works
A small dose placed into the masseter tells it to contract less hard. Force begins to fall within one to two weeks, peaking over following weeks. You may still make the grinding motion, but it lands softly. Placement matters — the masseter sits near the muscles that lift the corners of the mouth, so accurate placement is essential.
Anti-wrinkle treatment vs night guards
A night guard is a physical barrier — protects teeth but doesn't reduce force. Masseter treatment reduces force and eases ache/headaches but leaves teeth in contact. Most grinders need both.
When it's the right choice
Persistent morning jaw ache, tension headaches, an enlarged masseter, or grinding a guard alone hasn't settled.
When it isn't enough
Severe grinding driven by stress or poor sleep — quietening the muscle eases a symptom while the driver continues. Airway-driven bruxism — the jaw may be working to keep the airway open; this needs sleep-medicine assessment, not an injection.
Cost and treatment plan
From £300 per session. Usually paired with a Davies hard splint (£495). Skin and aesthetic consultation £65, redeemable in full against treatment.
Results timeline
Force begins falling over one to two weeks, full effect over following weeks. Lasts four to six months, often longer with repeat treatment. Re-treat when symptoms return, not on a fixed calendar.
Side effects
Mild and temporary: tenderness or bruising at injection points, brief chewing fatigue in the first week or two.
Frequently asked questions
Will it stop grinding completely? No — it reduces the force, easing ache, headaches and wear. Our guide to anti-wrinkle treatment for bruxism covers the evidence.
Can I stop wearing my night guard? Usually not — they do different jobs.
How is this different from cosmetic masseter treatment? Same muscle and medicine, different primary aim.
Is it covered by insurance? Some plans contribute; many don't cover muscle-relaxing injections.
Will my dentist need to see me for this? Yes — muscle, teeth, bite and grinding drivers are assessed together.
If grinding is wearing you down
Skin and aesthetic consultation £65, redeemable in full against treatment. Call 020 8127 4567 or WhatsApp +44 7974 910222. 222 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 3AP.
Reviewed by Dr Vishal Patel · BDS, MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry · GDC 103127. Last reviewed 5 June 2026.
