Botox® & Dermal Fillers

Botox is often thought of as a way to reduce wrinkles, but there are a number of uses in dentistry. Botox and dermal fillers can help minimize TMJ and migraine symptoms, as well as reducing gummy smiles and enhance smiles before during or after orthodontic treatment. While Botox and other dermal fillers are similar, it’s important to know the difference. Botox is derived from a neuromuscular toxin (botulinum), while most fillers are Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring nutrient that we lose as we get older.

Treating TMJ Disorder with Botox

If you suffer from TMJ-related pain, it’s possible to treat the cause without mouth guards. Botox injections help relax the muscles around the mouth and jaw. By doing so, the chances for a headache from teeth clenching and jaw pain is greatly reduced. Because of this muscular-based treatment, you can find relief that doesn’t involve an uncomfortable mouth guard.

Treating Migraines with Botox

Migraines can significantly impact your daily life. Before Botox was approved for migraine relief, patients were subject to a variety of preventative treatments that often resulted in drug interactions and limited effectiveness.

Botox, however, has been studied and proven effective for the treatment of migraines. One study published in NCBI featured a double-blind, vehicle-controlled study with groups receiving differing dosages of botulinum toxin type A. This study showed that those receiving the Botox for migraine treatment saw significant improvement in the three month period following the injection.

Reducing Gummy Smiles with Botox

For those self-conscious about how their gums show when they smile, Botox can offer a change. This procedure is quick and doesn’t require surgery or a laser treatment. Treatment for a gummy smile focuses on a muscle that runs from the side of the nose to the upper lip. The Botox injection relaxes this muscle, preventing the upper lip from moving too far when smiling. These injections can also reduce chronic gingivitis, because it keeps the gums covered. Results will last about three to four months.

Since approved for treatment, many people have been choosing Botox and dermal fillers to help treat their TMJ, migraines, and gummy smiles.