Teeth grinding headaches (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding headaches treatment overview
While you are asleep the muscles that control the closing of the jaws can tense up and clench. These muscles are effectively run the equivalent of a marathon while you sleep, causing them to fill up with lactic acid. The resulting tension can then cause debilitating pressure headaches, usually upon waking.
Old school solutions to this problem are available such as bite guards or grinding back the teeth. Most people find it extremely uncomfortable to sleep with a mouth guard in place. Grinding of teeth to a different bite is very invasive and can cost thousands, often with very mixed results. Consequently, an alternative solution is an attractive option for most people. Headaches associated with tooth grinding (Bruxism) can be treated effectively with prescription only medication.
The area that controls the clenching of the jaws is gently injected with prescription-only medicine. This injection relaxes the muscles which control the clenching of the jaw (the masseter). As a result, this muscle will no longer be able to clench with as much force, and this allows the jaw to relax and relieve the tension naturally. As the tension fades the headaches will reduce in number and often vanish altogether.
Dr Joe explains teeth grinding headaches
Free Consultation
Here at Rejuvenate, the consultation appointment is an essential first step in your treatment journey. Initial consultations are free of charge and will be undertaken by Dr Joe Dowie BDS, BSc (GDC 26409).
You will discuss with Dr Joe precisely what you consider your problem areas to be, and how you would like them to be treated. Dr Joe will then talk you through in detail all the specific options available and what type of result you can expect to achieve. This helps to make all our treatments safe and reassuringly predictable.
It should be noted that not everyone is suitable for all of our treatments. The consultation allows us to precisely tailor the treatments to your exact needs. It is only on a successful assessment of your medical history and facial anatomy that we will know if you are suitable for headache reduction injections.
We look forward to meeting you and starting you on your journey to a more confident, refreshed you.
Questions and Answers
How long does the effect of headache reduction treatment last?
The effects are temporary; for most patients, the average is between 4-9 months.
How quickly do you feel the effects of headache reduction treatment?
The effects of the medication will be felt within 2-3 weeks.
Does it hurt to have teeth grinding related headaches treatment?
Our treatment consists of two small injections which will be placed in as little as one minute. Here at Rejuvenate at North Street, we take great pride in making the client experience as pleasant as possible. Hence we always use both ultra fine needles and a vibration distraction device to ensure your comfort during the treatment.
How much does it cost for teeth grinding headaches treatment?
Consultation FREE
Treatment from £240
Aftercare instructions
Please take care to follow our directions:
- Do not repeatedly frown or tense the area for about 1 hour after the treatment. This will help the procedure to be more productive by increasing the uptake in the targeted muscles.
- Do not rub or touch the treated area for 3-4 hours.
- Try to remain upright for 3-4 hours and do not lie down.
- Avoid any exercise for 3-4 hours.
- Avoid applying makeup to the area for 1 hour. After this, apply makeup gently for the next 24 hours. Use a light dabbing motion rather than a rubbing or spreading action.
- Do not have any facial treatments for the next 7 days. Other treatments may cause ‘tracking’ of the Botulinum Toxin to nearby areas.
- Above all, if you have any concerns, please contact the practice. We are on North Street, Dudley, West Midlands. Full details on the contact page.