What should I do if my masseter muscle is too large?
My masseter muscles are particularly large, making my face appear wide and giving it an unattractive shape. I would like to know what I can do about enlarged masseter muscles.
Doctor's answer (1)
For enlarged masseter muscles, it is first necessary to correct不良 oral habits, such as avoiding chewing food on one side frequently, and switching to chewing on both sides. At the same time, reducing bruxism at night can be achieved by wearing a customized night guard to alleviate the pressure on the masseter muscles caused by grinding.
For masseter muscle enlargement caused by bruxism, the primary task is to address the underlying issue, such as using customized occlusal splints or undergoing behavioral therapy to reduce teeth clenching. Additionally, improving lifestyle habits and reducing the intake of hard foods can help alleviate excessive use of the masseter muscles.
Among non-surgical treatment options, botulinum toxin injections are a common and effective method, capable of temporarily weakening the contraction ability of the masseter muscles, thereby reducing their size. However, this should be performed under the guidance of a qualified physician to avoid complications.
If the enlarged masseter muscles are due to widened mandibular angles, orthognathic surgery may be an option. This procedure involves making incisions inside the mouth to reshape the local cartilage tissue, with costs generally ranging from 50,000 to 60,000 yuan, and the results are similarly long-lasting.
Regular facial muscle massage and hot compresses can help relieve tension in the masseter muscles. In addition, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding excessive chewing of hard objects is also recommended.
