Botox® in Brentwood for TMJ, Teeth Grinding & Smile Esthetics
Dentists spend their careers studying the muscles, nerves, and structures of the face and jaw. That makes us especially well-suited to provide Botox® treatment, whether you want relief from jaw pain or a more balanced, confident smile. At Concierge Dentistry, Dr. Danesh provides Botox® as part of your complete care plan, in the same comfortable, unhurried setting you know from your regular visits.
How Botox® works:
Botox® is a purified protein that temporarily relaxes the specific muscles it’s injected into. By calming overactive muscles, it can reduce the force of clenching and grinding, ease jaw tension, and soften lines and movements that affect how your smile looks.
Therapeutic uses:
Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism). Grinding and clenching, often during sleep, can wear down and crack teeth, damage dental work, and leave your jaw sore in the morning. Botox® placed in the chewing muscles can reduce clenching strength, helping protect your teeth and dental work.
TMJ and jaw tension. For many patients with TMJ disorders, overworked jaw muscles contribute to pain, tightness, and tension headaches. Botox® may help relax those muscles and ease discomfort, often alongside other treatments such as a custom night guard.
Enlarged jaw muscles. Years of clenching can enlarge the masseter muscles, giving the lower face a square or heavy look. Relaxing these muscles can relieve tension and gradually soften the jawline.
Using Botox® for bruxism and TMJ is considered an off-label use. During your consultation, we’ll review whether it’s appropriate for you and how it fits with other treatment options.
Cosmetic uses:
Gummy smile. When the upper lip lifts too high, more gum tissue shows than you might like. A few small injections can relax the lip slightly so your smile shows more teeth and less gum.
Lines around the lips. Botox® can soften vertical lip lines and the downturn at the corners of the mouth for a more relaxed, refreshed look.
Completing your smile makeover. Botox® pairs well with veneers, whitening, and other cosmetic treatments, helping your lips and smile work together in harmony.
What to expect:
Treatment begins with a consultation, where we review your health history, examine your jaw and smile, and talk through your goals. The injections take about 10 to 20 minutes and use a very fine needle. Most patients describe it as a quick pinch. There’s little to no downtime, and you can return to your normal day right away. We’ll give you a few simple aftercare instructions, such as avoiding rubbing the area and lying down for a few hours.
Results and how long they last:
You’ll typically begin to notice a difference within a few days, with full results in about two weeks. Effects usually last three to four months, sometimes longer for jaw-muscle treatment. Many patients find that results last longer with regular maintenance.
Is Botox® right for you?
Botox® is a good option for many healthy adults. It isn’t recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with certain neuromuscular conditions or allergies to its ingredients. We’ll review your medical history and medications to make sure it’s safe for you.
Common questions:
Does it hurt? Most patients feel only a brief pinch. We can use a topical numbing agent if you’d like.
Will I look frozen? No. Our goal is natural, subtle results. We use precise doses to relax only the targeted muscles.
How much does it cost? Pricing depends on the number of units needed, which we can discuss during a free Botox consultation. Financing is available through CareCredit and Cherry if needed.
Can it replace my night guard? Not necessarily. Botox® can reduce grinding force, but a night guard still protects your teeth. Many patients benefit from both.
Schedule your consultation:
If jaw tension, grinding, or your smile’s appearance is bothering you, we’d be glad to help. Schedule online or call us at (310) 820-0123 to book a consultation with Dr. Danesh.