Does Botox help against teeth grinding?

There is a fair amount of evidence that Botox (botulinum toxin) can help with teeth grinding, but it is not a permanent solution and it mainly works on the symptoms, not a cure.

Botox works by temporarily weakening the chewing muscles. Research shows that botulinum toxin injections can reduce the frequency of grinding and relieve pain, jaw tension, and muscle/joint problems.

In some studies, both muscle activity and perceived pain decreased significantly after the Botox injection. Botox treats the symptom, not necessarily the underlying cause. For example, stress, sleep problems, poor bite, or habits simply persist.

The effect is temporary. You usually notice it within a few days to weeks, but after about 3 to 6 months, the effect gradually diminishes. It doesn't work equally well for everyone. Results vary greatly from person to person; for some, there's a clear improvement, for others, less so or only temporarily.

Botox can be beneficial if grinding leads to serious complaints such as jaw pain, temporomandibular joint problems, tooth wear, tension headaches, or when conventional measures (splints/bite guards, stress reduction, dental correction) are insufficient.

Botox can help with teeth grinding in many people, primarily by reducing pain and jaw tension and decreasing grinding or clenching activity. However, it does not guarantee complete or permanent recovery. It is more of a symptom-suppressing, temporary therapy.

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2304-6767/12/6/156

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2025-12-12 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2026