Does Clenching Your Teeth/jaw Make Jaw Muscles (Masseter Muscles) Bigger and Bulge out?

many people who have large cheeks, especially the lower cheek, are affected by hypertrophic masseter muscles from clenching. This can sometimes cause a painful TMJ, or temporo-mandibular joint syndrome. Relaxation of these muscles are often curative and Botox can be used to relax these muscles. There can be risks of asymmetric treatment.

Absolutely - If your muscle is constantly under tension, it will become more prominent.  Weakening the masseter muscle keeps you from clenching your teeth as tightly.  Weakening the muscle can 1) save your teeth, 2) reduce neck/headaches, 3) help you open your mouth better.

Just like any muscle on your body, if you frequently contract your muscles in the jaw then they will get stronger and thus more prominent.

Hi and thank you for your question. Ironically, we see a great number of patients who complain of the action itself (sore jaw from clenching at night, or grinding teeth) as well as the appearance or change in facial shape. Small doses of Botox is an excellent treatment option to soften, relax, and return facial shape, often providing relief in all areas of concern. If you have a Botox provider already, be sure to ask about this treatment and if you do not already have a provider, I suggest that you pursue a consultation and learn more about how it works, what to expect, results and longevity, and inquire about dosage and cost of treatment. In our experience, patients are very happy with this treatment option.

Yes, in a sense clenching your jaw and/or grinding your teeth will strengthen those muscles, thereby increasing the size causing potential bulging. Botox is commonly placed in the masseter muscles to lessen the strength and size, and results in a desirable facial contour.