For most people, when they hear the word Botox, they instantly relate it to just a fancy treatment used to smoothen out wrinkles from the face. Yes, this is the most common use for Botox. However, some highly skilled dentists blend Botox and dentistry to deal with several dental issues, a practice that has started gaining momentum in the current world.
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How is Botox used in Dentistry?
First of all, dentists can use Botox in dentistry because of their facial muscle and bone architecture expertise. This knowledge and training give them the ability to achieve naturally-looking and precise results.
The most common form of Botox used by dentists is the Botulinum toxin A. when introduced in the patient’s muscle, the protein in it attaches itself to the nerve endings and inhibits nerve transmission. This will mean that the muscle won’t contract, meaning that the motions below the injected site that can cause wrinkling will be stopped. It might take from three to seven days until the results become visible.
Is Botox Safe?
Ever since the merging of Botox and dentistry, Botulinum toxin A has shown an outstanding safety record. The good thing about it is that the treatment is temporary, meaning that it wears off entirely once done. However, it is still right to visit an experienced medical professional, reputable or botox injections. This will give you peace of mind since you are sure of a safe procedure.
Botox and Dental Problems
Botox has shown its effectiveness in treating various painful dental problems.
Bruxism
For those who don’t know, bruxism is the unconscious habit of clenching and grinding teeth, whether awake or sleeping. Such practices can lead to severe pains as well as adverse dental problems. For example, a person with bruxism might have headaches, facial aches, earaches, and migraines. They might also develop issues with the tooth enamel, tooth sensitivity, and chipping of teeth.
Botox can be used to treat this condition. When injected into the muscles, the Botulinum toxin provides tremendous pain relief, treats headaches and other problems associated with the condition. This toxin is injected into the muscle that controls the jaw’s movement (masseter muscle) and makes it weak enough to stop the grinding. Moreover, voluntary activities such as facial expressions won’t be compromised.
Botox for TMJ treatment
Dentists also use Botox for TMJ treatment. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that acts as a hinge to the mouth; you are able to speak or chew because of it. Even with its essential functions, this joint is sensitive to stress, be it physical or emotional. When stressed, the muscle tends to tense up. This can lead to problems such as:
- Swells on the face
- Sore jaws and cheeks
- Pain, especially around the ears
- A click sound from the jaw when opening or closing the mouth
- Headache
When Botox is injected into the TMJ, pain is significantly reduced. Patients experience several changes after the treatment. For example, the headaches might disappear instantly or lessen the intensity gradually. Also, they will start feeling less anxious, helping them get better sleep. Additionally, it is also an excellent way to prevent bruxism! The patients can freely move the mouth for close to three months after the treatment.
Getting a Botox treatment is easy. For example, if you live in Beverly Hills, look for the best Beverly Hills dentist available. They will lay out the treatment plan, advise you on what to do, and undertake the procedure accordingly. The Beverly Hills dentist are:
- Board-certified
- Professional
- Empathetic
Holistic dentistry in Los Angeles is also easy to get; it’s just about choosing the best.