From the Guidelines
When you get mandibular Botox, the primary effect is the temporary weakening and shrinkage of the masseter muscles, which can lead to a slimmer jawline and relief from bruxism and TMJ disorders, but the current evidence does not specifically address mandibular Botox, and its effects on sialorrhea are only indirectly related through the broader context of botulinum toxin therapy 1. The procedure involves injecting botulinum toxin into the masseter muscles, and while the exact dosage for mandibular Botox is not specified in the provided evidence, botulinum toxin therapy (BT) for sialorrhea has been studied, with varying doses and locations of injection, including parotid and submandibular glands 1.
- The effects of mandibular Botox can include a more contoured jawline and relief from symptoms of teeth grinding and TMJ disorders.
- Temporary side effects may include soreness, bruising, or difficulty chewing tough foods for a few days after treatment.
- The procedure works by preventing acetylcholine release at nerve endings, which inhibits muscle contraction, and while generally safe, it's crucial to have this procedure performed by a qualified medical professional to avoid complications.
- The evidence from the study on respiratory management of patients with neuromuscular weakness suggests that botulinum toxin therapy can be beneficial for sialorrhea, but the variability in the literature and the lack of a recommended dose make it essential to approach mandibular Botox with caution and consider individual patient needs and responses 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Effects of Mandibular Botox
- Mandibular botox, or botulinum toxin injections into the masseter muscle, is a treatment option for bruxism, a condition characterized by unconscious contractions of the masticatory muscles leading to teeth grinding and jaw clenching 2.
- The effects of botulinum toxin injections usually last several months and can temporarily cause partial paralysis of the masticatory muscles, reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life of patients with bruxism 2.
- Studies have shown that botulinum toxin injections can reduce the frequency of bruxism episodes, decrease pain levels, and maximum occlusal force generated by this pathology 3.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Botulinum toxin injections have been compared to occlusal splints, a traditional method of treatment for bruxism, and have been found to be effective in reducing pain and improving symptoms 4, 5.
- One study found that botulinum toxin injections were less effective in reducing pain than occlusal splints, but no difference was found between the two methods in terms of reducing maximum bite force 4.
- Another study found that botulinum toxin injections were more effective than occlusal splints in reducing pain and improving symptoms, and that occlusal splints might not be necessary for patients treated with botulinum toxin injections 5.
Safety and Efficacy
- Botulinum toxin injections have been found to be a safe and effective treatment for patients with bruxism, especially in patients diagnosed with severe bruxism 3.
- The risk of bias of studies on botulinum toxin injections for bruxism has been assessed as low to unclear, and the results have been presented as a narrative review 6.
- Overall, the evidence suggests that mandibular botox is a viable treatment option for bruxism, and can be considered as an alternative to traditional methods such as occlusal splints 4, 3, 5.