How Long Do Results Last for Masseter Muscle Treatments? What You Should Know

For individuals experiencing jaw tension, clenching, or teeth grinding, various treatment options may be considered to help manage activity in the masseter muscle. These interventions are typically temporary, and a common question is how long the effects may last.

This blog outlines general timelines for symptom relief, factors that influence treatment duration, and the importance of personalised care plans when managing muscle-related concerns in the jaw.

The Role of the Masseter Muscle

The masseter muscle is essential for chewing and clenching. When overactive, it can contribute to:

• Jaw tension or discomfort

• Functional symptoms such as bruxism

• A more pronounced appearance of the lower face in some individuals

Chronic overuse may lead to changes in both the function and shape of the jaw area. Treatment strategies that reduce muscle load may help alleviate these issues temporarily.

General Duration of Effect

Improvements are often noticed within a few weeks of initiating care, with effects generally lasting between 3 and 6 months (Ferrillo et al., 2023; Park et al., 2022). However, this varies based on several individual factors, such as:

• Dosing of the Treatment - The higher the dose, generally the longer the duration it lasts

• The baseline strength and size of the muscle

• Frequency of contributing behaviours like chewing or clenching

• Use of protective aids such as occlusal splints

• Lifestyle factors, including stress and overall health

• Patient’s body metabolism

Factors That May Influence How Long Results Last

The duration of improvement depends on a combination of behavioural and physiological variables. Studies have highlighted the role of consistent follow-up care, the precision of technique applied, and adherence to supportive habits in maintaining results (Chen et al., 2023).

Do Outcomes Improve with Repetition?

For some individuals, continued care may lead to more sustained effects. When combined with long-term strategies like stress management or habit modification, the need for frequent intervention may decrease over time (Coelho et al., 2024).

However, outcomes vary and should always be evaluated in the context of a professional assessment.

What to Expect as Effects Diminish

Over time, the treated muscle typically regains its prior function. This may mean a return of clenching, facial tension, or visible muscle prominence. Maintenance strategies should be discussed during follow-up appointments to ensure ongoing comfort and optimal function (Ferrillo et al., 2023).

When to Seek a Review

If you notice a return of symptoms or new concerns regarding jaw tension or facial balance, a clinical assessment may be beneficial. A registered healthcare practitioner can determine whether reassessment or continued care is appropriate for your needs.

At TT Aesthetics, we offer assessments focused on supporting individuals with concerns related to muscle function in the lower face. Our care plans are grounded in clinical evidence and tailored to each person’s presentation.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a registered health practitioner for personalised care.

To learn more about your masseters book a consultation with a qualified expert, book TT Aesthetics.

Masseters Case Studies

Citations

Chen, Y., Tsai, C.-H., & Bae, T. H. (2023). Effectiveness of treatment approaches for bruxism: A systematic review. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 47(2), 775–790.

Coelho, M. S., et al. (2024). Management of bruxism: An overview of systematic reviews. BMJ Open, 14(10), e082861.

Ferrillo, M., et al. (2023). Clinical management of muscle-related facial concerns: A comprehensive review. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 12(6), 2021.

Park, G., et al. (2022). Evaluation of therapeutic techniques for masseteric hypertrophy: A structured protocol review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry, 14, 67–74.

Shehri, Z. G., et al. (2022). Clinical outcomes following low-intervention treatments for masseter overuse. Cureus, 14(5), e67587.