When most people think of Botox, they assume it’s performed solely as a cosmetic procedure used to maintain a youthful appearance and reduce lines and wrinkles. They wouldn’t be wrong; in fact, Botox is the most common cosmetic procedure out there. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported over 7.4 million Botox treatments in 2018. 

With all of this information, it may surprise you to learn that dentists are now using Botox as well! 

What is Botox? 

Botox is a drug made from a toxin known as Clostridium botulinum. This is the same toxin that can cause food poisoning called botulism, but its use as a paralytic has been approved by the FDA for cosmetic purposes. In other doses, Botox can also treat migraines, excessive sweating, excessing blinking, and an overactive bladder. 

Cosmetic Botox is used to block the nerve signals that control muscle movement. This softens the skin around the injection site and doesn’t allow the muscle to contract. Results can last up to three months and are typically seen after just a few hours. 

Botox in Dentistry 

Botox is now being used in dentistry because of its ability to block nerve endings. Botox in dentistry is used for the following problems: 

• Treatment of TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) 
• Lip adjustment before or after denture placement or oral surgery 
• Improve a ‘gummy smile’ without undergoing surgery 
• Treatment of grinding or clenching the teeth during sleep (bruxism) 

Using Botox at the dentist might cause some controversy, but it has many benefits both cosmetically and medically. In fact, around 10% of dentists are currently trained to administer Botox injections. 

For more information or if you’d like to schedule an appointment for a cleaning or exam, please contact Severance Dental located here in Severance, Colorado. Looking for a dentist in Pierce or an Eaton family dentist, contact us today.