Why function comes first
The masseter is a working muscle. Sustained clenching or grinding — often at night, often unnoticed — can present as morning tension, headaches, tooth wear, or a gradual change in the width of the lower face. Those are connected, and assessing only the visible change misses the cause.
A jaw muscle relaxation assessment reviews history of clenching and grinding, how tension varies through the day, and how the jawline has changed over time.
When dental review comes first
Where there is dental wear, cracking, pain on chewing or a diagnosed condition, dental assessment should precede any cosmetic discussion. Splint therapy or dental management is sometimes the appropriate first step, and being told that is a sign the consultation is doing its job.
- Visible tooth wear or chipping
- Pain on chewing or opening
- Clicking or locking of the joint
- A dentist has already raised grinding with you
What the appointment covers
- History of clenching, grinding, headaches and jaw pain
- Assessment of muscle activity and facial balance
- Discussion of what any considered option can and cannot do
- Risks, alternatives and aftercare explained before consent
- A plain no where treatment is not appropriate
The consultations guide sets out how that conversation runs in practice.