Botox is commonly known as a solution for cosmetic concerns. It can effectively smooth wrinkles or restore firmness to sagging skin. However, there are many other uses for botox. Botox is also used to treat TMJ symptoms related to bruxism. Botox injections are minimally invasive and have minimal risk. There is no surgery involved, no anesthesia and no recovery period. However, not everyone may be a candidate. A consultation with Dr. Rowein can help determine if it is suitable for you. Once she has carried out an examination of your face and a medical history, she will determine which facial areas will benefit most from botox injections.
How does Botox work?
Botox uses a special protein to block overactive nerve impulses, restricting muscle contractions. In doing so, Botox helps to relax the muscles beneath the skin, so that fine lines and wrinkles become less visible, giving the skin a healthy, more youthful appearance. With TMJ therapy, Botox is used to relax the muscles of the jaw and alleviate the clenching or tension in the jaw area which is often characteristic of these conditions. This is because botox works by “blocking” signals to the muscle they are affecting, which prevents grinding, clenching, or tension. It can also help with symptoms of migraines associated with tension in the TMJ muscles.
Which Facial Areas Can We Treat With Botox?
How Long Does the Effect of the Injections Last?
On average, the effects of Botox treatment will last for between 3 and 4 months for the smaller muscle groups targeted with esthetic treatments, and between 5 and 6 months for the bigger muscles treated with TMJ therapy. An individual’s metabolism determines what this duration will be. There is some evidence that the treatment offers cumulative effects and the duration could be prolonged with repeat treatments. Treatment is temporary, and once the Botox begins to wear off, the skin will return to the way it looked before treatment. Once you notice the reappearance of the wrinkles and lines, you will need to visit our office for another treatment.
Am I a good Candidate for Botox?
Botox may or may not be the right treatment for you. The best candidates for treatment with Botox are:
As dentists, in order to provide medically proven esthetic techniques we must take over 30 hours of training that is not required of our medical and non-medical colleagues. We also give hundreds of thousands of injections every year; this is a natural extension of what we already do!
If you feel that you are a good candidate for a Botox treatment, and are interested in learning more, please contact us at 780-422-7674 to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.