The masseter is the large chewing muscle at the angle of the jaw. In people who clench or grind — often at night, often without knowing — it becomes overworked and enlarged, causing jaw ache, tension headaches, worn teeth and a squarer, heavier lower face. Treating it is one of the most quietly life-improving things we do. At ELM Aesthetics the treatment is assessed and carried out by Melody Steel, a Nurse Prescriber with over 19 years’ experience and a background in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery unit at St James’s Hospital.
How it works
A prescription-only muscle-relaxing medicine is injected into the masseter on each side, reducing the force of the clench. The muscle can no longer contract with full power, so grinding eases and the ache with it. Over the following weeks the muscle, no longer being overworked, gradually reduces in bulk — which is where the jaw-slimming effect comes from.
Who it helps
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), particularly at night
- Jaw pain, tightness or clicking, and tension headaches in the temples
- Worn or cracked teeth, or a dentist who has raised concerns about grinding
- A square or heavy lower face caused by enlarged masseters
What to expect
As this is a prescription-only medicine, your consultation and assessment come first and Melody prescribes your plan; treatment is then booked for a separate day, as she cannot legally prescribe and treat in the same appointment. At the treatment visit a small number of injections are placed into each masseter. It takes about half an hour and there is no downtime. Relief from clenching typically begins within one to two weeks; the slimming effect develops more gradually, over six to eight weeks, as the muscle reduces in size.
Honest limitations
Chewing very tough foods may feel slightly weaker for a few weeks. If your jaw shape is defined by bone rather than muscle, slimming will be limited — Melody will tell you honestly at consultation. It does not treat the underlying cause of grinding (often stress or sleep-related), so a dental night guard may still be advised. Results are temporary and vary from person to person.
What it costs
A deposit will be required to secure your appointment.
Your questions answered
Will it change how I chew?
You may notice chewing very tough foods feels slightly weaker for a few weeks. Everyday eating and speaking are unaffected.
How long until my jaw looks slimmer?
The relief from clenching comes first, within a couple of weeks. Visible slimming develops over six to eight weeks as the muscle reduces in bulk.
How long does it last?
Typically four to six months. With repeat treatments, the muscle often stays smaller for longer.
Will it help my headaches?
Where headaches are driven by clenching and masseter tension, many people find significant relief. It will not help headaches with other causes.
Can I be treated at my first visit?
No — as a prescription-only medicine, Melody prescribes at your consultation and treatment is booked for a separate day.
Do I still need my night guard?
Possibly. Treatment reduces the force of grinding but does not address why you grind, so your dentist may still recommend a guard to protect your teeth.