See Proven Results With Botox
BotoxⓇ Cosmetic is one of the most highly sought treatments due to its minimally invasive nature and proven results. As a non-surgical solution for facial rejuvenation, Botox is something that we get a lot of questions about here at Harris Dental, Maryville, MO.
If you’re looking to learn more about it and how it can assist with headaches, jaw pain, and other issues, we’ve provided some answers to some of the most common questions we receive. Read on to learn more.
1. Is Botox just used for cosmetic purposes?
Not at all. Dr. Harris specializes in using Botox for headaches, jaw pain, temporomandibular disorder (TMD), bruxism, clenching, and masseter hypertrophy.
It can also be used to treat functional or esthetic dental conditions like deep nasolabial folds, radial lip lines, high lip line, and black triangles between teeth. Source: National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
2. So does Dr. Harris only use it for therapeutic purposes?
No. Dr. Harris also uses Botox for cosmetic purposes, which include smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and enhancing your lips.
3. What is Botox?
The official title for Botox is “botulinum toxin type A”. It’s a neurotoxin that comes from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It was first discovered in 1970 when scientists were researching the bacterium as a possible treatment for strabismus (crossed eyes). And yes, Botox is effective in treating crossed eyes as well!
4. How does Botox work?
Botox injections temporarily quiet signals between nerves and muscles, creating localized muscle immobilization. As targeted muscles produce very little movement during the treatment cycle, the overlying skin also moves less, giving your skin a smoother and younger-looking appearance. The results of injections generally last between one and six months.
5. Can any dentist do cosmetic, therapeutic, or dental Botox?
No. A dentist must be properly qualified and certified to administer Botox. As part of their education, dentists go through extensive training around craniofacial anatomy, which puts them in a unique position to be able to administer Botox.
It’s important that you only work with properly qualified dentists and medical practitioners who are qualified to administer Botox to ensure that you don’t suffer any avoidable issues due to incorrect procedures such as drooping eyelids and muscle weakness.
6. How long will the injections last?
Administered here in our offices, Botox injections generally take about half an hour or less to be performed. It can take up to two weeks to see the full results of your treatment and it typically lasts anywhere from one to six months. Touch-up treatments are likely to be needed on a periodic basis to maintain your ideal results.
7. What are the most common injection areas?
Botox can be administered in many areas, and when a qualified injector is performing the treatment, the results can be outstanding. Here are some of the more common areas that we treat here at Harris Dental:
- Forehead lines
- The area between your eyebrows
- The upper eyebrow area
- Crow’s-feet
- Corners of the mouth or where your smile lines are
- Dimpled chin
- Jaw area for treatment of TMD and jaw pain
- Any area on the face where muscles are in pain
A proper assessment with one of our qualified Botox specialists will help determine the right treatment for you.
8. What is the difference between Botox and dermal fillers?
Botox works on the muscles, helping to reduce lines and contractions. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, replace lost volume, which reduces the appearance of deep wrinkles and folds.
9. Will I still be able to make facial expressions?
Of course! Botox only affects the treatment area and is subtle. It works on muscle movement and will not freeze the area.
10. Are there any risks and side effects?
While side effects are rare, in some cases, patients can suffer from headaches and bruising following a treatment. During your assessment, we’ll discuss these with you, along with your anticipated results, and any other risks that are specific to you (if any).
11. What’s the recovery time following a treatment?
This is one of the many great things about Botox! There is no recovery time at all. You can literally pop in on your lunch break, have your treatment and then head back to work and be fine to continue your day.
12. Do I need to be over 40 to use it?
There is no age restriction. It’s not really about your age, it’s about the type of treatment you’re having and the reason you’re receiving it. You could be in your early twenties and suffering from headaches or severe jaw pain. A Botox treatment could be the right solution for you.
If you need further information about whether Botox Cosmetic treatment is a good option for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Harris Dental.
