The use of botulinum toxin in the management of bruxism and facial arthromyalgia syndrome

Abstract

Objectives. The focus of this study is to determine the outcomes of botulinum toxin injections in patients with symptomatic bruxism. Material and methods. We reviewed the medical records of patients with bruxism and facial arthromyalgia syndrome treated by botulinum toxin injections. We evaluated the initial complaints, clinical findings, technique of neurotoxin administration, previous treatments and post-injection outcomes. Results. Pain related symptoms were significantly decreased in all patients one month following administration and maintained three months post-injection. Complications of the technique were mild and rarely encountered. Conclusions. Botulinum toxin is effective in reducing the associated symptoms of bruxism, and its administration is generally safe if careful injection technique is employed and adequate doses used.

Keywords

• bruxism
• botulinum toxin
• arthromyalgia
• temporomandibular joint
• injection
• masseter