Botox in Dentistry

Botox is a powerful neurotoxin that inhibits nerve signals to muscles, causing a temporary paralyzing effect. As a cosmetic treatment, Botox is most commonly used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the patient’s forehead and eyes.

It works by relaxing the muscles in the face that cause wrinkles. When muscles relax, the skin can smooth out, and wrinkles are reduced. Our dentists administer Botox using a tiny needle. You may feel a small pinch, but the needle is so small that most people do not even feel it. But what is it actually used for in dentistry?

Botox for TMJ

Botox can be used to treat TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder and is often done together with a nighttime mouthguard. When a patient suffers from chronic tension or pain in the jaw area, Botox can prevent the muscles from contracting, relaxing them and relieving tension. Botox treatments last between three and six months.

Botox for Bruxism

Bruxism, or grinding of the teeth, occurs most often at night. However, some people grind their teeth during the day as well. This deep grinding can eventually wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, or even change the sound of the voice.

Bruxism can lead to dental damage such as broken or cracked teeth. It can also injure the jaw joint, resulting in chronic facial pain. People who grind their teeth can also experience headaches, earaches, dizziness, or fatigue. Botox can be used to relax the jaw muscles and reduce and even stop teeth grinding.

Botox for Gummy Smile

Botox is highly effective for a gummy smile. In fact, it’s one of the treatments we recommend before cosmetic dentistry. Botox helps relax the muscles that are responsible for elevating the upper lip.

When those muscles are relaxed, the upper lip will sit at a lower position. As it does, the gums and teeth will be exposed, which corrects the gummy smile.

Botox for a gummy smile is nonsurgical, so it’s relatively painless and safe.

Botox for Gummy Tongue

The gummy tongue is a common condition where excess mucus collects on the tongue. It creates the sensation of a “gummy” or slippery coating on the tongue.

This condition can be caused by a number of factors, including allergies, dry mouth, or hormonal imbalances. However, a simple treatment involving Botox can help.

Botox for Gummy Lips

Botox for gummy lips is a popular treatment. Patients visit their dentists to have their lips injected with Botox to reduce the appearance of small vertical lines around their lips, often called smoker’s lines or lipstick lines.

Botox is a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes facial muscles. The injections are quick, and patients can resume their normal activities immediately following their appointment.