What Is Botox?

Botox is an FDA-approved neuromodulator that temporarily stops muscle movement.

Your provider injects tiny doses of an approved toxin that relaxes the muscles and keeps them from moving. According to the Mayo Clinic, this toxin is made by the microbe that causes botulism.

Sometimes people are surprised to learn there are also medical and dental care uses for Botox injections, including treating chronic tension and migraine headaches, chronic tooth grinding, involuntary muscle twitches, and other conditions where relaxing specific muscles offer relief.

Why Choose a Dentist for Botox

The injectable has a range of therapeutic uses and is also sometimes used in dentistry. Dentists sometimes use Botox to treat Bruxism, TMJ, and headaches.

Combining dentistry with Botox injections is a convenient option for many patients. Imagine scheduling your Botox for TMJ or headaches at the same appointment as your dental cleaning or tooth whitening treatment!

Many professionals administer Botox, yet people are often surprised to learn dentists are among them. A skilled dentist treats the patient’s mouth and faces holistically. They are often the first to recognize early symptoms of various dental conditions due to their extensive knowledge of the head and face.

This same knowledge positions them to administer Botox injections for TMJ precisely. Besides, there are different reasons for jaw pain: muscle or joint. 

A dentist has been properly trained in how the jaw functions, which makes them experts in TMJ disorders. Botox works only on the muscle, which means it would not help with true joint pain. 

What to Expect From Botox Treatment 

Dr. Kelly will first talk with you to learn about your goals, health history, and more. If you are already seeing her as a patient, you are already off to a great start!

Once confirming that Botox is appropriate for you, Dr. Kelly will strategically inject the Botox into the right muscles for your goals. The process is usually quick and relatively painless.

Most people start seeing results right away, but it can take a week or two for the peak results to emerge. Results typically last around three months, but each individual metabolizes differently.

Plan to avoid lying down or vigorous physical activity for a few hours after your injections. If you work out daily, be sure to do your workout before your injection. Many patients also see best results if they stop drinking alcohol and taking aspirin, fish oil, or other anti-inflammatory medicines and supplements for a few days before their treatment to help minimize the risk of bruising.

Discuss any medications or supplements you take with Dr. Kelly before your injections so she can provide you with accurate information specific to your situation.

Does Botox Have Side Effects?

Most people experience no side effects or just minor side effects like mild pain at the injection site for a day or two. Dr. Kelly will discuss possible side effects, including rare, serious side effects. Be sure to follow her advice in the days and weeks following your treatment for the best results.

Possible side effects include redness and soreness at the injection sites that last a few hours to a few days. Some people get headaches for a day or two or even long-term. This is less common since Botox is actually used to treat chronic headaches.

In highly rare instances, there are serious and sometimes life-threatening side effects. If you are new to Botox or need a refresher, be sure to ask Dr. Kelly since knowing what to look out for can save your life. If you experience a fever, lightheadedness, dizziness, paralysis, or other concerning symptoms in the days following Botox injections, seek immediate medical care.

How Botox Can Ease Headaches and TMJ Discomfort

Headaches and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can disrupt daily living by producing pain, discomfort, and decreased functionality. However, there is one viable remedy that may surprise you: Botox. This FDA-approved medication works by focusing on specific muscle groups involved in migraine pathogenesis and jaw dysfunction.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), located on both sides of the head where the jawbone joins the skull, is utilized for talking, eating, swallowing, and other daily tasks. If this joint gets dislocated or strained due to excessive teeth grinding, a person may experience severe tension headaches and intense jaw pain. Botox improves jaw strain by inhibiting muscles from engaging in the strong, often unconscious movement of the jaw that causes headaches and pain.

Botox injections are a promising treatment option for people who suffer from persistent migraines. Botox can also lessen the frequency and intensity of headaches by inhibiting the release of specific neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling, offering much-needed relief from distressing symptoms.

Feel Confident Choosing Southview Dentistry for Botox®

Did you know that Dr. Kelly is IAFA certified? IAFA is the International Association of Facial Aesthetics. Dr. Kelly continues to perfect her craft and just recently completed her certification with IAFA. She is an expert in utilizing Botox® for TJM and headaches.