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

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.