┃Why is Botox used in dentistry?

Botox injections are not only suitable for cosmetic procedures or aesthetic treatments, but are widely used to treat various areas and conditions in the head and neck. The applications of botulinum toxins in the maxillofacial regions have proved effective for years and are typically divided into two categories: cosmetic and non-cosmetic (or therapuetic). According to a comprehensive review of Botox in dentistry, “BTA or Botox® offers substantial benefits as an adjunct to cosmetic dental procedures as well as a minimally invasive alternative to conditions which are refractory to routine medical management or require extensive surgical intervention.”

In other words, Botox treatments or injections allow dentists to offer alternative, minimally invasive treatment options for conditions particular to their specialty, i.e. the mouth and jaw.

It is important to note that the use of botulinum toxin in dentistry is not intended as an independent cure for specific conditions. Botox is used in dentistry to primarily provide cosmetic enhancements, relief of symptoms common to oral health concerns and as an alternative treatment for patients unable to tolerate traditional treatment (read below for examples). When used in conjunction with more traditional treatment plans, Botox may offer an increase in efficacy and success.

┃What conditions can be treated with Botox?

Botox helps to treat a variety of oral and dental health conditions:

• Bruxism - Bruxism is a condition in which you grind, gnash or clench your teeth. When injected into the large muscle that moves the jaw, Botox temporarily weakens or freezes the muscles responsible for the tension so that the muscle relaxes and the wear and tear on the teeth is reduced.

• TMJ disorder - TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) is a condition where the muscles and ligaments in your jaw and around your jaw joints become inflamed, irritated or do not function properly. Similar to how Botox helps bruxism, the muscles in the jaw can be relaxed, which relieves pain as well as reducing the frequency of headaches associated with TMJ. Additionally Botox can help restore normal mouth and jaw movements for people who suffer from TMJ.

• Gummy smile - A “gummy smile” is when an excessive amount of the upper gum tissues show when smiling (usually 3mm or more). Botox can easily and effectively treat a gummy smile by relaxing the muscles in the upper lip and limiting the rise of the upper lip when smiling.

Botox in dentistry, particularly as a treatment for TMJ, teeth clenching or teeth grinding, is intended to be used as a supplemental treatment working in tandem with traditional treatments, including the use of a nightguard. Because some patients cannot wear a nightguard or continue clenching and grinding during daytime hours, Botox may be the recommended treatment option. To know if Botox is the right treatment for you, speak to your dentist during your next dental appointment or call our office today.

┃How does Botox help?

Botox helps treat and provides relief the symptoms associated with these conditions by temporarily preventing muscles from moving. The application or injection of the botulinum toxin temporarily blocks chemical signals from your nerves that signal to your muscles to contract. The toxins are injected into specific regions or muscles by a medical or healthcare professional to provide the desired outcome. Typically Botox injections begin to take effect within several days after treatment and the results last for a period of months. After initial treatment, another treatment may be needed depending on the condition being treated or the purpose of the injection.

┃How do I know if Botox injections is the right treatment for me?

To know if Botox injections are the right treatment for your oral or dental health condition, please consult your dentist. If you are experiencing TMJ pain, headaches or if your dentist has recommended the use of a nightguard, then Botox may help alleviate your discomfort and treat your condition. The use of Botox in dentistry should only be performed by a dental provider trained in Botox injections and specifically trained in maxillofacial areas. For more information about Botox treatments at Kleypas Family Dental in Cypress-Fairbanks or to book an appointment for Botox treatments at our dental office, request an appointment today.