Many people are curious about Botox but aren’t sure of the right questions to ask. To help keep you informed about this amazing drug, we’ve provided answers to some common questions to help you decide if Botox is your best option for fighting the signs of aging and other conditions. 
Botox is most often used to smooth out wrinkles, crows feet, and other signs of aging. It’s also been proven useful in treating migraines and jaw grinding. Botox works by blocking the chemicals that cause your muscles to contract. While side effects are possible, they’re easily avoided by receiving your injections from an experienced dentist.
We’ll look at:
- What is Botox?
- How does Botox work?
- What are the benefits of Botox?
- Are there side effects to Botox?
Botox is a wonderful solution for the signs of aging and various medical problems. Keep reading to learn how Botox can help you!
What is Botox?
Botox is a revolutionary drug commonly used to help reduce the signs of aging. When used in small amounts, it has the ability to smooth out wrinkles, fine lines, and crows feet. Not only that, but Botox has also been proven to be effective in treating certain medical problems such as migraines and jaw clenching.
Botox is derived from a bacteria known as Clostridium botulinum. While it shares the same origin as botulism, it has both cosmetic and medical benefits in the hands of medical professionals such as your dentist. They have the knowledge and training to administer this drug in the most beneficial way possible while minimizing any negative effects.
This is why the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use. When used correctly and in small doses, the benefits of Botox far outweigh any of the risks. Dentists and their staff are uniquely prepared to work with Botox. Since they’re already trained in dealing with injecting anesthesia, working with sensitive tissue, and other cosmetic work such as dental whitening and implants, Botox is just another tool in their toolbox of skills.
How does Botox work?
Botox is a neurotoxin, but don’t let that word fool you. In a medical setting, it can actually be quite beneficial. This is due to the fact that Botox works by interfering with the process that causes muscles to contract. With less muscle contraction, wrinkles and other signs of aging become less visible
When functioning normally, muscles contract when our nerves release acetylcholine in the area where muscle cells and nerve endings meet. Acetylcholine is a “messenger” chemical that tells the muscles to contract, or become shorter. This is the process that makes fine lines and other signs of aging more visible.
This is where Botox injections come into play. When injected, Botox actually prevents acetylcholine from ever being released to begin with. This prevents the contraction of muscles from occurring and allows them to be more relaxed. The final result is muscles that are more relaxed and less prone to showing the signs of aging.
What are the benefits of Botox?
As we’ve just seen, the primary use of Botox is cosmetic. This makes it a wonderful way for people to look the way they feel without committing to permanent options like plastic surgery. What’s more, you don’t have to look like a mannequin, either. Botox provides a temporary solution for the signs of aging while also allowing you to figure out how much is right for you.
However, just because people use Botox for cosmetic reasons doesn’t mean that’s the only reason to consider getting it. Botox actually provides medical benefits as well! This is great news for people who suffer from medical conditions such as migraines and jaw clenching.
Botox and Migraines
One of the most significant benefits of Botox is its ability to reduce the occurrence and severity of migraines. Frequent migraines that last for long periods of time are often the result of muscle tension or contractions. When injected into specific neck and jaw muscles every three months, Botox can help alleviate pain and help sufferers experience fewer migraines.
Botox is not a cure-all for migraines since it may not be able to prevent them from recurring. However, it can be beneficial when included in a migraine treatment plan. Consult your healthcare team to learn more about how Botox can help you.
Botox and Jaw Clenching
Many people experience facial and jaw pain due to clenching their jaw, also known as bruxism. When left untreated, you may experience craniofacial pain such as earaches and headaches. These symptoms can severely impact your quality of life as you focus more and more on managing your pain.
What’s more, grinding your jaw can lead to serious dental problems such as:
- Loss of enamel
- Increased sensitivity
- Chipping or cracking
Like with migraines, Botox helps to alleviate your symptoms by treating their root cause. When injected into the right muscles, your jaw is able to relax and cause fewer problems for both your oral health as well as your overall comfort.
Are there side effects to Botox?
As with all medical or cosmetic procedures, there are some side-effects and risks when it comes to Botox. They can include:
- Headache
- Dry eye
- Increased tearing
- Drooping eyelids
- Pain at the injection site
This is why it’s so important to research your dentist before choosing one to perform Botox treatments. It’s also why you should consider our team here at My Family Dentistry. Dr. Mullins has over 15 years of experience in dentistry and has received continuing education in the use of Botox and other dermal fillers.
Julie is our Botox Champion. She has been working side by side with Dr. Mullins for three years providing Botox to our patients. She’s a believer in Botox not only for what it’s done for our patients, but what it’s done for her.
As she puts it:
I am now a believer in Botox and Juvéderm because I see what they do for my skin, fine lines, and wrinkles, and how they make me feel. We all do things to make ourselves feel better, like improving our diets, exercising, using hair dye, and applying makeup. How are Botox and Juvéderm any different?
Do you have questions about Botox and want to learn more? Check out our free ebook to go deeper and learn the difference it can make in your life!
My Family Dentistry is open Monday through Thursday and every other Friday. Give us a call at (865) 947-6453 or you can schedule an appointment online.