Some people notice their jaw looks more square, or the lower face appears wider than they’d like. Often, this comes down to the masseter muscles — the muscles at the sides of the jaw used for chewing — becoming enlarged or overactive. At Face Studio Clinic, we help patients understand what’s contributing to this and talk through the full range of options during a one-to-one consultation.
What causes an enlarged or overactive masseter muscle?
Clenching or grinding (bruxism) — often done unconsciously, especially during sleep or under stress, which can cause the masseter muscle to build up over time, much like any other muscle that’s used repeatedly.
Genetics — some people naturally have larger or more prominent masseter muscles.
Jaw habits — including chewing gum frequently or clenching the jaw during exercise or concentration.
If clenching or grinding is part of the picture, it’s also worth knowing this can lead to jaw pain, headaches, or worn teeth over time — which is something our dental team can also assess alongside any aesthetic concerns, since the two are often connected.
What happens at a consultation
Our team will assess your jaw and facial muscles, ask about habits like clenching or grinding, and talk through the full range of options that may be suitable for you — including, where relevant, whether it’s worth involving our dental team if bruxism is contributing.
FAQs
Is jaw clenching or grinding linked to anything else?
Yes — it’s commonly linked to jaw pain, headaches, and worn teeth over time, so it’s worth mentioning to our dental team as well as discussing any aesthetic concerns.
When do I see results from my masseter muscle treatment and are there any side effects?
The results will take 3-14 days to take full effect. There is no downtime to this procedure, in fact, people can return to their daily activities after their visit.
What causes a square or wider-looking jaw?
Most often, it’s down to the size or activity of the masseter muscle, which can be influenced by genetics or habits like clenching and grinding (bruxism).
Do I need a consultation first?
Yes — assessing your jaw muscles and any underlying habits like clenching or grinding is needed before any option can be recommended.
Back to Face Treatments
