BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines.
Applications For BOTOX Cosmetic
Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following:
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Gummy smile
According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been “extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies.”
BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure And Results
Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into the facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, but can take up to two weeks for full effect, and typically last two to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.
Side Effects Of BOTOX Cosmetic
Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following:
- Pain
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bleeding
- Bruising
Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.
BOTOX FAQS
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. BOTOX Cosmetic injections treat moderate-to-severe facial lines and wrinkles that are formed by continual muscle contraction. Treatment with BOTOX Cosmetic is the most popular physician-performed nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the United States.
What Does BOTOX Cosmetic Do?
According to its manufacturer, Allergan, Inc., “BOTOX Cosmetic is the first and only FDA-approved prescription product that temporarily improves the appearance of both moderate-to-severe frown lines between the brows and moderate-to-severe crow’s feet in adults.”
How Does BOTOX Cosmetic Work?
Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic, which contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract.
When Will I See Results From BOTOX Cosmetic? How Long Does It Last?
Results from BOTOX injections are apparent within 24 to 48 hours, and are maximized by 14 days. Results often last between 2 and 4 months.
Does BOTOX Cosmetic Have Medical Applications?
Yes; it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines.
Who Is Qualified To Give BOTOX Cosmetic Injections?
The manufacturer of BOTOX Cosmetic recommends that injections only be given by a doctor who has experience with BOTOX Cosmetic, and has a “medical practice that focuses on facial aesthetics and offers other facial aesthetic treatments.”
What Are The Possible Side Effects Of BOTOX Cosmetic?
Side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary. Possible injection-site side effects include pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, bleeding and bruising.
What Are The Possible Cosmetic Side Effects Of BOTOX Cosmetic?
Depending on where they are given, cosmetic side effects of BOTOX injections include eyelid drooping and swelling.
How Is Botox® Used In The Field Of Dentistry?
Botox® is widely used in the field of dentistry for a number of different purposes. Because it can be injected into the muscles of the face and neck, it can alleviate a variety of dental concerns, including:
- TMJ/TMD. Temporomandibular joint disorder symptoms, including joint pain and facial muscle spasms, can be alleviated using Botox® injections at Golden Dental Solutions.
- Bruxism. Bruxism is a condition that causes clenching and grinding of the teeth, which can cause sore muscles and damage to the natural teeth. Botox® is often used to treat soreness or discomfort caused by this condition.
- Gummy smiles. Patients who have a “gummy smile” may find that Botox® injections used on the upper lip can keep it from lifting, showing less gum tissue for a more attractive smile.
- Chronic headaches and migraines. Patients who have chronic headaches and migraines from bruxism or TMJ/TMD will often get relief with strategically used Botox® injections with Drs. Dallas D. Kenson, and Evelyn Qi of Golden, Colorado.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Botox® Injections?
The best candidates for Botox® are those who are in good overall health and who have a medical or dental concern that can be treated with the use of Botox® injections.
Do I Need To Have Continued Injections Of Botox® To Maintain The Results?
If you use Botox® for any dental conditions, you should be aware that the results are not permanent. In fact, most patients enjoy the benefits of Botox® for several months as the medication will stop providing the desired result. To maintain the results from Botox® injections, regular appointments should be made with our team.
How Often Should I Have Botox® Injected?
The time between injections will vary depending on many factors. This includes the amount of Botox used to achieve results, the condition being treated with Botox®, and past experiences with Botox. Every patient is different, but most individuals can expect their treatment to last a few months before needing to visit the office for more.
Why Should I Visit A Dentist For Botox® Injections?
Dentists use injections every day to anesthetize the gums and teeth for many dental procedures. Because they understand how to perform injections and are trained in providing Botox® treatments, you can rest easy that the team at Golden Dental Solutions is providing you with the best possible results from your injectables.
Can Botox® Be Used For Facial Enhancement?
Botox® is more commonly used in addressing facial imperfections, specifically dynamic wrinkles caused by continued muscle tension. It is best for the upper portion of the face where muscles are used daily, treating crow’s feet, glabellar lines between the eyebrows, and forehead folds that develop as we age.
How long does a Botox treatment session take?
A typical Botox treatment session lasts around 10 to 15 minutes, making it a quick and convenient procedure. You can easily fit it into a lunch break or between daily activities with minimal downtime.
Will Botox make my face look frozen or unnatural?
When administered by an experienced professional, Botox should not cause a "frozen" or unnatural appearance. At Golden Dental Solutions, we use a conservative approach to ensure natural-looking results, focusing on subtle enhancements while maintaining facial expressions.
Are there any side effects of Botox?
Side effects of Botox are generally mild and temporary. These can include slight redness, bruising, or swelling at the injection site, which usually resolves within a few hours to a couple of days. Severe side effects are rare but can occur if administered incorrectly, which is why it’s important to choose a qualified provider.
Can Botox prevent wrinkles from forming in the future?
Botox can help prevent the deepening or development of new wrinkles by relaxing the muscles that cause them. Many patients choose Botox as a preventive treatment to maintain smoother skin as they age.
Is there anything I should avoid after receiving Botox?
After a Botox treatment, you should avoid lying down for at least 4 hours and refrain from strenuous exercise or touching the treated area for 24 hours. This helps to ensure the Botox settles into the targeted muscles correctly without migrating to unintended areas.
Can I get Botox alongside other treatments?
Botox is often part of a larger cosmetic treatment plan. Combining treatments often provides enhanced, more comprehensive facial rejuvenation results. Your provider at Golden Dental Solutions can recommend the best combination for your needs.
What is the best age to start Botox treatments?
There is no specific "ideal" age for Botox treatments, as it depends on individual skin conditions and goals.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for Botox?
Botox is suitable for most healthy adults, but a consultation is necessary to determine if it’s the right option for you. Certain conditions like pregnancy, breastfeeding, or neuromuscular diseases may require alternative treatments. At Golden Dental Solutions, we will evaluate your medical history and goals to ensure Botox is safe and effective for your needs.
Can I return to work immediately after Botox?
Yes, one of the benefits of Botox is that it requires little to no downtime. Most patients can return to work, right after their appointment. However, it's recommended to avoid any strenuous physical activity for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
Why Choose Golden Dental Solutions For Botox® Injections?
Dr. Dallas D. Kenson is pleased to provide Botox® for patients at the office and has had extensive training and experience in successful injections for both new and returning patients. She also completed training with Dr. Sid Solomon, who practices on the Hollywood Strip and treats celebrities with Botox® medication for anti-aging benefits.
Discover Your Options with Botox
If you're ready to enhance your appearance and relieve dental-related discomfort, Botox might be the perfect solution for you. Whether you're interested in smoothing out wrinkles or finding relief from TMJ or bruxism, the experienced team at Golden Dental Solutions is here to guide you through the process.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how Botox can improve both your aesthetic and dental health. Contact our office in Golden, CO, to speak with a team member or book an appointment. Let us help you feel and look your best.