Botox Dentistry
Primarily known as a cosmetic procedure for treating wrinkles and fine lines. Botox (botulinum toxin) has a long history in the medical and dentistry field. The use of Botox in dentistry is primarily due to its minimally invasive nature to treat conditions like high lip lines, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ), bruxism, ill-fitting dentures and more.
What Dental Conditions Can Botox Treat?
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) – with limited treatment options in the past, treatment with Botox helps the facial muscles relax countering the hyperactivity of these muscles at the root of TMJ. Patients receive quick and efficient pain relief.
Clenching and Grinding – Teeth grinding can be alleviated with Botox treatments which reduce the force of muscular contractions. We use the injections as an adjunct therapy to night guard appliances.
Toothless – patients can benefit from Botox treatment which can relax, and retrain the lip muscles which have become repositioned due to decreased vertical dimensions. This condition causes dentures to not fit well.
High lip line or “gummy’ smile – patients with a high lip line can use Botox to help relax lip muscles and achieve a lower, more aesthetically-pleasing smile line. This is a popular option because the entire process isn’t very invasive and can provide a more immediate form of treatment.
Chronic clenching – this disorder can lead to chronic trauma to teeth, gingiva, and underlying tissues. Low doses of Botox can inhibit the ability to tense up facial muscles and thus make clenching difficult or impossible.
Does Botox Hurt?
The majority of patients state Botox injection feels more like a slight pinch if anything at all.
Is Botox Toxic?
Botox is HPFB approved with over 20 years of use for many conditions. Botox has a long and well-established history of safety. We are happy to discuss all your options and answer any concerns about using Botox.