Reasons for Dental Botox Injections

Many patients find that dental Botox® is a versatile treatment option for a variety of issues. While it is often used to reduce wrinkles for a tighter complexion, Botox has several other uses for helping improve health and reduce pain. Whether it is used as a treatment for certain jaw disorders or simply to enhance a person's smile, this product is becoming more and more available in dentists' offices across the country.

Using Botox to treat dental issues

Botox is a well-studied product that is FDA-approved for cosmetic, dental and medical purposes. When handled professionally, it is considered a safe treatment option for a variety of dental issues and poses very few risks to patients. However, Botox has a limited life-span, so most patients will need repeat doses every few months, depending on the situation.

Temporomandibular joint disorders

Patients who suffer from painful disorders of the jaw may find relief with dental Botox injections. This type of ailment can cause tension, swelling, and discomfort from chewing and talking. In some situations, temporomandibular joint disorders are the result of an enlarged masseter muscle, which connects the cheekbone to the jawbone. Botox can be used to reduce the movement of this muscle, resulting in a gradual reduction in size and less tension in the joint.

Bruxism

Individuals who frequently grind or clench their teeth may have a condition known as bruxism. This unintentional habit can lead to serious complications for the patient, including tooth fractures, chronic headaches, severe pain and even tooth loss. However, as with TMJ disorders, treating the masseter muscle with Botox can reduce swelling, lessening the urge to grind the teeth.

Cosmetic enhancements through dental Botox

While this product can be used to reduce swelling and relieve pain, Botox can also be used cosmetically to improve the overall look of the smile. Dentists may offer several beautifying treatment options to patients to help achieve a desired look.

Gummy smile treatment

Some individuals naturally expose a large amount of gum tissue when smiling. Dentists can use Botox to relax the lip muscles and help improve the appearance of a gummy smile. This treatment helps keep the lips from moving too much when smiling, thereby displaying less gum tissue for a smile that draws attention to the teeth instead.

Smile lifts and wrinkle reduction

When a dental professional is certified to administer Botox, patients can seek cosmetic improvements for a variety of smile-related issues. The product can help create a smile lift by positioning the corners of the mouth in an upward direction. Wrinkles can also be addressed with this procedure. Administering the treatment in several areas across the face can help enhance the beauty of a patient's smile without the distraction of wrinkles.

How does Botox work for dental treatments?

Botox for dental procedures works by inhibiting muscle contractions that can cause pain due to clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth. As a neurotoxin, small doses deactivate the nerves associated with these actions, thereby deactivating the muscles and easing pain.

Does Botox for dental use work in any other ways?

Sometimes, dental professionals use Botox to help with the healing process after an oral or jaw surgery. Because of its paralytic nature, it helps to keep the area of the mouth that is healing from moving during the process. This is especially common after a dental implant surgery for immobilizing the area where the bone needs to heal around the implants. This may help the implants to be more successful.  

What else should I know about Botox as a dental treatment?

There are several other things that you should know about your Botox dental treatment. Depending on what you are using the treatment for, your dental professional will create a treatment plan that helps you to maintain your results. This may include touch-up treatments and dosage options. Typically, injections last for 3-6 months, depending on how much your dental professional uses. Depending on the location of the injections, you will see results within a few days to a couple of weeks.

It is important to find a dental professional who is adept at using Botox as a dental treatment. This means that he or she is experienced and knowledgeable about the treatment and the structure of the nerve ending and muscles in the mouth and jaw. Look for a professional who is certified in the treatment to further ensure your trust and comfort.

Conclusion

Dental Botox is an increasingly viable option for patients who suffer from bruxism and TMJ disorders. When administered by a dental professional, the product can help relax muscles and relieve tension, resulting in less pain. Botox is still also a popular choice for individuals seeking smile enhancements. When used properly, this product can smooth wrinkles and highlight desired features for a more attractive, confident look.

Request an appointment here: https://professionaldentalcare.net or call Professional Dental Care at (559) 554-3201 for an appointment in our Fresno office.

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