Botox® – More Than Skin Deep
Since facial structure and aesthetics are essential concerns of dentists and their patients, it seems logical that Botox would become an important part of many dental practices. When muscles contract away from the skin, wrinkles are formed, but Botox inhibits that process by blocking certain nerves which prevents specific muscles from contracting.
Botox is a minimally invasive injection that has helped millions of people look and feel younger by treating fine lines and wrinkles—it has become an extremely popular facial rejuvenation practice. But did you know Botox has the capability to alter more than physical appearance?
Botox has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat:
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- TMJ or TMD
- Severe underarm sweating
- Cervical dystonia (a neurological disorder causing severe neck and shoulder muscle contractions)
- Uncontrollable blinking (blepharospasm)
- Overactive bladder
Many Carson City patients don’t know that Botox can be used to relax muscles in the jaw and face for pain relief of TMJ disorders (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), reduction of teeth grinding (bruxism), or in support of orthodontics or dentures. Dentists like Dr. Clint Euse, Dr. Kelly Euse, Dr. Randy Wright, and Dr. Matt Lisenby are already skilled at giving oral injections, so treating chronic pain and revitalizing the face as part of designing a healthier smile makes good sense to many patients.
Botox injections last 3 to 12 months depending on what area of the body and medical condition are being treated. Facial injections may cause eyelids to droop temporarily. Flu-like symptoms such as headache and upset stomach are also possible and Botox should not be used at all when pregnant or breastfeeding. The most common side effects of Botox are mild bruising, pain, or swelling at the injection site.
The words to the old song are, “you’re never fully dressed without a smile” and Advanced Dentistry by Design tends to agree. Healthy teeth are the most important part of a great smile, but if you would like to explore your options for Botox Cosmetic or Botox for pain relief, we would love to speak with you. Contact us today and let’s talk about your options!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
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