Botox for bruxism — how do I find the right dentist?

Question

As for plastic surgery, I understand we get 'board certified' plastic surgeons. But what about dentist? I solely want to get botox for bruxism. Should I be looking for a board certified plastic surgeon for this too?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Just for the record, a dermatologist was the first to come up with the idea of injecting Botox for aesthetic reasons, and dermatologists were also pioneers in the fields of not only Botox, but injectable fillers and chemical peeling-treatments for wrinkles and scars, all of which they soon disseminated to plastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons, as well as to other core and even non-core physicians attempting to branch out outside of their specialties to nonsurgical aesthetic medicine and non-physicians, such as dentists. Dermatologists were also the pioneers in the use of Botox for lower facial slimming and contouring, particularly in Asian women that resulted from hypertrophy of the masseter muscles--the same hypertrophy that results from bruxism in individuals of all ethnic backgrounds. So, nowadays you have your choice of Botox injector, but whomever you ultimately choose, just make sure that they are experienced in treating the masseters.  Best of luck to you.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

Most doctors who do cosmetic injections of Botox should be able to do this injection for you.  In addition to being used for bruxism, this injection is done for people with very prominent masseter muscles.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  As a dentist does much of their work inside the mouth I would recommend seeking out an plastic surgeon with extensive injectable experience for this treatment.  Best wishes.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Do not know your age, but by now you need a dentist to evaluate the TMJ, and the condition of the teeth and what the bruxism have done to the teeth. May need a night quard. If no pathology a plastic surgeon can inject the masseter muscle and see how much relief you get.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

Treatment for bruxism is the same as that for slimming the face and you should see a dermatologist or plastic surgeon rather than a dentist

Botox for bruxism — how do I find the right dentist?

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More Botox for TMJ Questions

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More Botox for TMJ Questions

Do you recommend masseter Botox or filler to achieve a slimmer looking face?

Can my head width be reduced? Is reduction of temporal muscles an option? (photos)

Relief from Botox injections in Masseter muscles last only 3-4 weeks, between 15 and 25 units per side. How can I make it last?

I got Botox for TMJ. Is it possible for the tech to have missed my masseter muscles?

Should I go to a dentist or cosmetic dermatologist for Botox to treat masseter muscle hypertrophy?

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