Botox

What can Botox® treat? 

Botox is a procedure that involves the injection of a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin into your skin. It works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to your muscles, preventing them from contracting.

Similar to how Botox relaxes facial muscles to improve lines and wrinkles, it can alleviate tension in your jaw. 

Botox treatment can prevent and improve symptoms associated with conditions such as:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Pain from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) 
• Jaw pain and tension
• Pain in the face, neck, and temples
• Headaches 
• Immobility in your jaw 
• Jaw muscle shifts from dentures
• Jaw clicking or popping 
• High lip lines 
• Repositioned lip muscles because of toothlessness 
• Weakened tooth enamel 
• Gum sensitivity 
• Chipped or cracked teeth 
• Difficulty chewing 
• Sensitivity to hot and cold 

Your provider may also suggest Botox if night guards or other treatments haven’t been effective. 

What happens during a Botox procedure?

Your provider performs the nonsurgical Botox treatment at the Applemint Dental office. They may inject Botox into your jaw muscles, temple, forehead, and other areas, depending on your needs. 

Expect to feel a slight prick at the injection site. However, the procedure is painless. Your session may last anywhere from 10-30 minutes, and you can return to your daily activities immediately. 

After the session, your provider may recommend using an ice pack or numbing cream to treat soreness or bruising. Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area and exposure to sunlight and heat for 24 hours after your treatment. 

You should also refrain from taking blood thinners, like aspirin or ibuprofen, for 24 hours after the treatment. 

Botox wears off in approximately 3-6 months, and you may need to return for continual treatment for optimal relief. Botox also isn’t a cure for TMD or teeth grinding. 

What are the side effects associated with Botox treatment?

Botox is a safe and effective procedure. However, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women or people who are allergic to botulinum toxin.

Dental Botox causes similar side effects as its cosmetic uses, including:

• Minor bruising and swelling 
• Infection at the injection site 
• Temporary drooping of eyelids
• Headache 
• Allergic reaction 
• Facial paralysis 
• Double vision 
• Nausea 
• Respiratory infection 

Botox’s paralyzing effect on muscles may cause a fixed or uneven smile that could last for up to eight weeks. 

If you’d like to discuss effective Botox treatments, call Applement Dental today or book online.