Botox®
Botox® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), in forehead, or around the eyes (crow's feet) in people 18 to 65 years of age for a short period of time. Years of squinting, concentrating, or frowning can cause your skin to furrow and crease. As time passes, your skin becomes less elastic and those moderate to severe frown lines remain--even when your muscles aren't contracting. With this treatment, you can get real, noticeable results and still look like yourself. So, you can still frown or look surprised, but without the wrinkles and creases between your brows.
What’s involved when getting Botox® injections?
Prior to administering Botox® injections, the dentist needs to check the patient’s suitability for treatment. When used in conjunction with certain medications and substances, Botox® may not produce the desired results. It is exceptionally important therefore, to be honest about prior medical history. Botox® is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
The Botox® injections take 5-10 minutes to administer, depending on the amount required. The Botox® procedure will be performed at the dental office, since it is non-surgical. Driving ability will not be impaired by the treatment, so there is no need for a designated driver. The injections are no more painful than a bug bite or pinprick, but nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can be used to reduce anxiety if necessary.
Normal activity can be resumed immediately after the Botox® treatment, but strenuous activity should be avoided for 24 hours after treatment. It may take several days to feel the full benefits of the treatment, but Botox® will continue to work for up to 3 months.
If you have any questions or concerns about TMJ or the Botox® treatment, please contact our office.