## Overview Masseter hypertrophy is enlargement of the cheek muscles from overuse. It is most often linked to cribbing or abnormal chewing from dental problems. One or both sides may be affected. A dental examination is recommended to identify contributing malocclusion. ## Causes Repetitive masseter contraction from cribbing, or compensatory chewing due to dental disease. ## Diagnosis Visual and palpable enlargement, history of cribbing, and oral examination. ## Treatment Address the underlying cause (cribbing management or dental correction). The muscle enlargement itself is not harmful but indicates a problem that should be investigated. ## Recovery and Prognosis The hypertrophy may reduce if the habit or dental issue is corrected, but some enlargement can persist. ## Prevention Regular dental care and management of stereotypic behaviors.
visibly enlarged jaw muscles on one or both sides; often associated with cribbing; dental examination recommended
## Overview Masseter hypertrophy is enlargement of the cheek muscles from overuse. It is most often linked to cribbing or abnormal chewing from dental problems. One or both sides may be affected. A dental examination is recommended to identify contributing malocclusion. ## Causes Repetitive masseter contraction from cribbing, or compensatory chewing due to dental disease. ## Diagnosis Visual and palpable enlargement, history of cribbing, and oral examination. ## Treatment Address the underlying cause (cribbing management or dental correction). The muscle enlargement itself is not harmful but indicates a problem that should be investigated. ## Recovery and Prognosis The hypertrophy may reduce if the habit or dental issue is corrected, but some enlargement can persist. ## Prevention Regular dental care and management of stereotypic behaviors.
visibly enlarged jaw muscles on one or both sides; often associated with cribbing; dental examination recommended