Botox in dentistry: beyond cosmetic treatments

Botox® (botulinum toxin type A) is widely known for its use in cosmetic treatments to smooth expression lines. However, in modern dentistry it is also used as a complementary tool to treat certain conditions related to facial and jaw muscle function.

When administered by properly trained healthcare professionals, Botox can help both improve facial harmony and manage some conditions related to oral health. At Durán & Martínez, Botox can be used to treat facial expression lines and also as part of a comprehensive approach to certain jaw-related muscle problems.

Botox works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that cause specific muscles to contract. As these muscles relax, the wrinkles that form with repeated facial movement are smoothed out. At Durán & Martínez, we offer Botox services in the following areas:

• Glabellar lines — The vertical lines that appear between the eyebrows, commonly known as “expression lines” or “frown lines.” Botox helps relax the muscles responsible for these lines, achieving a smoother appearance.
• Frontalis muscle (forehead lines) — The frontal muscle is responsible for raising the eyebrows and forming horizontal lines on the forehead. Botox can help smooth these lines while maintaining a natural expression.
• Crow's feet, or lines around the eyes — These small lines appear at the outer corners of the eyes when smiling or squinting. Botox relaxes the muscles in this area, reducing their appearance.
• Masseter muscles — The masseter is one of the main muscles responsible for chewing. Botox in this area can be used for cosmetic purposes, such as softening the appearance of a very pronounced jawline. However, this treatment also has important therapeutic applications in dentistry, especially in patients with bruxism or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Botox can be used as a complementary tool in the management of some symptoms associated with temporomandibular disorders and bruxism, always as part of an evaluation and treatment plan carried out by a dental health professional.

The masseter is a strong muscle that allows the jaw to close during chewing. In people who frequently clench or grind their teeth, this muscle can become overactive, causing muscle tension, jaw pain, and excessive pressure on the temporomandibular joint. Botox injections into the masseter help to temporarily reduce muscle activity, allowing the muscle to relax and decreasing the excessive force exerted on the jaw.

Bruxism is a condition characterized by clenching or grinding of the teeth, usually during sleep, although it can also occur during the day. According to medical organizations such as the Mayo Clinic, bruxism can cause symptoms such as:

• Jaw pain or fatigue
• Headaches, especially upon waking
• Tooth wear or fractures
• Tooth sensitivity
• Tension in the jaw muscles

Over time, bruxism can cause damage to teeth and dental restorations, and increased stress on the temporomandibular joint.

For patients with bruxism or TMJ-related muscle tension, treatment often requires a combined approach. A custom occlusal splint (nightguard) helps protect teeth from wear caused by grinding or clenching. However, while the splint protects the teeth, it does not necessarily reduce the intensity of muscle activity.

For this reason, in some cases it is recommended to supplement treatment with Botox in the masseter muscle, as this can help to:

• Decrease the force of clenching
• Reduce muscle tension
• Decrease stress on the TMJ
• Improve patient comfort

When used together, Botox and splints can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to protect oral health and improve jaw function.

Every patient is different, and conditions such as bruxism or TMJ disorders must be carefully evaluated before recommending treatment. Botox can be a useful tool within a personalized treatment plan, which may also include splints, bite assessment, and other therapies designed to protect teeth and improve jaw function.

At Durán & Martínez, the goal is to offer treatments that support both facial aesthetics and long-term oral health, helping patients achieve greater comfort, function, and confidence in their smile.