Dental Clinic | Ang Mo Kio, Bedok, Jurong East, Tampines – Dental Implants & Oral Care Singapore

Dental Botox Treatment

Botulinum toxin (commonly called “Botox®”) is an injectable medication that temporarily relaxes over-active facial or jaw muscles. In dentistry it is most often used to relieve teeth-grinding (bruxism), temperomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and tension headaches, or to refine a “gummy” smile. 1728 Dental Practice provides this treatment in our MOH-licensed clinics across Singapore, performed only by Singapore Dental Council–registered practitioners.

What Is Dental Botox?

Medication

Purified botulinum toxin type A, supplied in single-use vials.

Action

Blocks the nerve signal that causes selected muscles to contract. Relaxation occurs within 3–14 days and lasts 3–6 months.

  • Chronic bruxism – protects teeth from excessive wear.

  • TMJ–related facial pain or headaches – reduces muscle tension.

  • Masseter hypertrophy / square-jaw appearance – softens jawline bulk.

  • Gummy smile – lowers a high lip line by relaxing the levator muscles.

  • Adjunct to orthodontic treatment – eases muscle pull on moving teeth.

Suitability is confirmed only after a face-to-face clinical examination and medical history review.

  • Assessment (≈ 20 min)

    • Bite analysis, palpation of jaw muscles, discussion of expectations.

    • Confirmation that you are not pregnant, breastfeeding or allergic to botulinum toxin.

  • Injection Session (≈ 10 min)

    • Skin cleansing & topical anaesthetic if required.

    • Precise micro-injections using insulin-sized needles.

  • Post-Care Advice

    • Remain upright for 4 hours.

    • Avoid strenuous exercise, facial massages or saunas the same day.

    • Mild injection-site bruising or tenderness may occur and resolves within days.

TimelineWhat to Expect

Day
0–3

Muscles begin to feel looser; biting force may feel lighter.
Day
7–14
Full relaxation; headache frequency often diminishes.
Month
3–4
Effect slowly tapers; review visit arranged.
Month
4–6
Repeat dosing may be advised for sustained relief.
Common, TemporaryLess Common
Bruising, mild swelling, transient chewing fatigueDry mouth, asymmetrical smile (usually self-limiting), mild flu-like sensation

Botulinum toxin injection is contra-indicated in pregnancy, certain neuromuscular disorders, or if you have previously experienced adverse reactions to the drug.
All medical procedures carry risks; your dentist will explain alternatives such as occlusal splints, physiotherapy or surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Botox® for jaw issues legal in Singapore?

Yes. Dentists registered with the Singapore Dental Council may administer botulinum-toxin injections under their clinic’s Healthcare Services Act (HCSA) licence, provided they follow the Healthcare Services (Advertisement) Regulations 2021 and other MOH requirements.

Adults with chronic bruxism, TMJ-related muscle pain, prominent masseter muscles, or a “gummy” smile after conventional options (e.g. night-guards) have been considered. Final suitability is confirmed only after an in-person examination and medical history review.

Most patients describe the jab as a quick pin-prick; ultra-fine needles and optional topical anaesthetic keep discomfort minimal.

Normal eating is usually unaffected; very tough foods may feel “softer” for a few days while muscles adapt. Any weakness is temporary.

Mild bruising, transient tenderness or chewing fatigue resolve within days. Rarer effects include an uneven smile or dry mouth; these are dose-dependent and usually self-limiting.

Botulinum-toxin injections for dental indications are not Medisave-claimable.

Avoid alcohol, high-dose vitamin E, fish-oil or blood-thinning medication (unless prescribed) for 24 hours before to minimise bruising. Attend with clean skin and an updated list of medications.

Yes. Botox does not interfere with dental materials or orthodontic appliances. Plan future appointments around the two-week post-injection review so your dentist can reassess muscle activity.