Botox in orthodontics is used to relax overactive muscles around the jaw and mouth. Orthodontists use it to ease clenching and grinding, calm TMJ-related tension and soften a gummy smile, usually as a complement to braces or aligners rather than a replacement for them.
Dr. Tara Gostovich offers Botox alongside orthodontic care at our Marlboro, NJ office. Book a complimentary consultation to talk it through.
Why would an orthodontist use Botox?
Orthodontics is about more than teeth. The muscles that open, close and clench the jaw influence how the bite feels and functions, and sometimes how a smile looks.
When those muscles are overworked, Botox in orthodontics offers a targeted way to settle them. Small, precise doses temporarily limit how strongly a chosen muscle can tighten, while everyday talking, eating and smiling continue as usual.
How does Botox for orthodontic patients support treatment?
For people already wearing braces or aligners, the goal of Botox in orthodontics is comfort and protection, not faster tooth movement. Botox doesn't straighten teeth; it addresses the muscle side of the picture.
- Less clenching forceRelaxed jaw muscles may put less pressure on teeth, brackets and aligners.
- Calmer jaw jointsEasing muscle tension may reduce TMJ-related soreness.
- A balanced smile lineA few units can lower an upper lip that lifts too high.
- Easier morningsLess nighttime grinding can mean fewer sore, tired jaws at sunrise.
Botox for orthodontic patients is always planned around the bite. Dr. Gostovich considers where your teeth are headed before recommending any injection.
Can you use Botox for teeth grinding during treatment?
Yes. Grinding creates strong, repeated forces that can wear enamel and strain the jaw. Botox for teeth grinding reduces how hard the chewing muscles can bear down, which can help protect both natural teeth and orthodontic work.
Botox for jaw clenching targets the same muscles for daytime habits. Clenching often shows up during commutes, workouts or long stretches at a laptop, and most people don't notice until the ache sets in.
If grinding happens mostly at night, a night guard may still be recommended as extra protection for your teeth.
Is Botox for TMJ part of Botox in orthodontics?
It can be. The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw to the skull, and tight surrounding muscles can make them feel stiff, sore or noisy.
Botox for TMJ symptoms relaxes those muscles so the joint isn't working against constant tension. It's a therapeutic, off-label use evaluated case by case, and it doesn't replace a full medical diagnosis when symptoms are severe.
Where does a gummy smile fit in?
Some patients finish treatment with beautifully aligned teeth but still show a wide band of gum when they smile. When an overactive upper-lip muscle is the cause, a few small injections can lower the lip slightly for a more balanced look.
This cosmetic side of Botox in orthodontics is a finishing touch. If the jaw itself is the cause, Dr. Gostovich will explain which of our orthodontic treatments makes more sense.
What happens at the appointment?
- 1
Evaluate: Dr. Gostovich reviews your bite, jaw muscles and goals. - 2
Map: injection points and units are chosen for your muscles. - 3
Treat: a few quick injections, usually 10 to 20 minutes in total. - 4
Check in: results are reviewed and adjusted at future visits.
Early changes typically appear within 3 to 5 days, with the full effect at 7 to 14 days. Results usually last 3 to 4 months before a maintenance visit.
Why see an orthodontist for Botox?
Choosing an orthodontist for Botox means your provider studies how teeth, jaws and facial muscles work together every day. That makes it easier to spot when clenching is tied to a bite problem that needs its own fix.
Dr. Tara Gostovich is certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and tailors every dose to the individual. Patients rate TG Orthodontics 4.9 stars across 165+ Google reviews.
How much does Botox in orthodontics cost?
Botox is $13 per unit and Xeomin is $11 per unit. Your total depends on the area and the strength of the muscle, and we confirm it before treatment.
Monthly memberships lower the cost of regular visits: 20 units for $220, 30 for $300, 40 for $360 or 50 for $400.
See every Botox and filler option we offer.
Frequently asked questions
Does Botox in orthodontics move teeth?
No. Botox relaxes muscles; it doesn't shift teeth or replace braces or aligners. In orthodontic care it's used alongside treatment to ease clenching, grinding and jaw tension, or to soften a gummy smile once the teeth are aligned.
Can I get Botox for jaw clenching while wearing braces or Invisalign?
Often, yes. The injections target the chewing muscles rather than the teeth, so they don't interfere with brackets or aligners. Dr. Gostovich reviews your health history and treatment plan first to confirm it's a good fit for you.
How long do the results last?
Most people notice early changes in 3 to 5 days and the full effect at 7 to 14 days. Results typically last 3 to 4 months, and a quick maintenance visit keeps the muscles relaxed if you'd like to continue.
Curious whether Botox could help you?
Ask about Botox in orthodontics at a complimentary consultation in Marlboro, NJ. Call or text (732) 617-1211, or book online.