Although Botox is most commonly associated with cosmetic procedures, it also provides many therapeutic benefits, especially in the field of Dentistry and Orthodontics. Orthodontists are extensively trained in facial anatomy, structure, nerves, and muscles, and thus highly qualified to administer therapeutic Botox for both pain treatment and aesthetics.
We primarily use Botox for pain management, by treating pain that originates from facial muscles. The therapy was approved for treatment of chronic migraines in 2010 by the FDA and is also used to reduce teeth clenching and grinding. Other therapeutic effects include the relief of symptoms associated with TMD (temporomandibular disorder, and bruxism).
For aesthetic purposes, Botox improves the appearance of frown lines, forehead creases, crow’s feet, gummy smiles, and smoker’s lines. Botox results will reach full efficacy in 2 weeks post injection. Everyone metabolizes Botox differently, so results will vary but typically last between 3-4 months. After each re-treatment, less units may be required to produce similar results, and lines will return as less severe since the muscles have already been relaxed.
Botox, or Botulinum toxin, is a highly purified preparation of botulinum toxin A. It acts by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles and so relaxing the muscles by paralyzing them. Injecting the Botulinum toxin into the muscles temporarily reduces its activity by blocking the transmitters between the motor nerves. Botox is injected, in very small amounts, into specific muscles, as a treatment for a variety of applications.
Botox is used in a wide variety of treatments, ranging from cosmetic procedures to pain management, particularly for pain caused by TMJ disorders, and bruxism, (teeth grinding and clenching). Botox treatments can even alleviate discomfort for patients who have frequent headaches or migraines.
Most patients, however, choose Botox as a minimally invasive alternative to cosmetic surgery to eliminate wrinkles on the forehead, around the corners of the eyes, between the eyes, and around the lips. Reducing the activity of facial muscles relaxes wrinkles and redirects attention to your beautiful smile. Yet, Botox can have other applications, especially when it comes to framing the smile. Botox can help reduce smoker’s lines, and gummy smiles.
Treatments are painless and take 2-5 minutes, and the results last between 3-4 months.
Gummy smiles can be caused by a number of factors, including:
An injection of Botox above the upper lip reduces the lifting action of lip muscles, thus reducing the display of gum tissues. Treatment provides patients with a more aesthetically pleasing, beautiful smile.
Treatments are painless and take 2-5 minutes. The results can last between 3-4 months.