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Cosmetic Dentistry

Overactive chewing muscle: what helps in dentistry.

Teeth grinding, jaw pain and tension headaches often come back to the same muscle. An overview of the symptoms and the stepped approach.

Dr. Nazanin Böhle · HOS Editorial
5 min read24 June 2026

botulinum toxin in dentistry? More than cosmetics

Botulinum toxin (botulinum toxin) relaxes individual muscles in a targeted way. This is exactly what is useful in dentistry too — because muscles play a major role around the jaw, mouth and smile. It is used both functionally (against complaints) and aesthetically.

The most important applications

The common denominator

In all cases it is about a targeted, temporary muscle relaxation — and always only after a thorough examination. botulinum toxin is never an isolated quick fix, but part of a well-thought-out concept.

Why at the dental practice of all places?

Chewing and facial muscles, the jaw joint and the aesthetics of the smile are part of the daily field of a modern dental practice. This knowledge of anatomy and function is exactly what makes a safe, natural-looking application.

Cost & procedure

Treatment timeapprox. 10–15 min
Downtimenone

Are you considering whether botulinum toxin makes sense for your concern? You can find more about the botulinum toxin treatment on the treatment page — or arrange a no-obligation consultation at our practice at Löwenplatz in Zurich.

Important note on off-label use

Botulinum toxin is not officially approved for treatment of the chewing muscle — this is what is known as off-label use. It is only considered when approved therapies such as splint therapy, physiotherapy or stress management do not work sufficiently. Botulinum toxin is a strictly prescription-only medicine; its use requires corresponding further training. Before any treatment we inform you in detail about the benefits, limits and possible side effects.

This article is for general information only and does not replace individual dental advice. Whether and which treatment is right for you is something we determine in a personal consultation based on your individual situation.

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