Heard that nighttime teeth grinding can make the masseter muscles bigger, leading to a square jawline. Does this have any impact on beard density or growth patterns? Would love to hear thoughts.
Bulkier jawline from grinding might stretch skin, altering beard appearance.
The enlargement of masseter muscles from bruxism can indeed reshape the jawline, potentially impacting beard growth indirectly. While RoryRover noted skin stretching, another factor is the altered blood flow and tension patterns in the facial tissue. Chronic grinding may reduce circulation to the jaw area, which could slightly hinder hair follicle nourishment over time. Additionally, the increased muscle bulk might compress hair follicles, leading to uneven growth or a patchier appearance. Treatments like Botox or custom night guards can mitigate these effects by reducing muscle hypertrophy and restoring a more balanced facial structure, supporting healthier beard growth conditions.