Botox is one of the most popular non-surgical treatments available, used to smooth and reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as treat specific medical conditions. So much so, that your local Edmonton dentist may be trained to offer this type of treatment to you and other patients. Agape Dental Clinic Mill Woods is a trained provider of Botox treatment for cosmetic purposes.
Although this treatment has received much acclaim since the early 2000s, most patients do not understand the specifics of Botox treatment and how it works. Before seeking cosmetic or therapeutic Botox it is important to understand the treatment process, what it is used for, how long it lasts and what to expect post-treatment.
How Does Botox Work?
During the procedure, your Edmonton dentist will inject a small, diluted amount of the toxin into the treatment area. The injection of the toxin prevents the muscle cells from contracting and inhibits the normal contraction of the muscles, making them stiff. When the muscles become stiff, the wrinkles will relax and soften as a result. This procedure is highly effective in treating wrinkles, smile lines, lines around the eyes, lines between the eyebrows, and forehead lines.
Cosmetic & Therapeutic Uses of Botox
There are a variety of uses for Botox and it can help to understand each one.
Cosmetic Botox
In the cosmetic market, Botox is utilized as an aesthetic treatment for patients, effectively smoothing wrinkles and facial lines that have appeared over time. There are a variety of ways Botox can enhance and take years off of a patient’s appearance. We list out some of the different cosmetics uses below:
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles in the face and neck
- Eyebrow Lift
- Reduction of a gummy smile
- Balance uneven lips
- Reduce wrinkles around the eyes
- Temporary face-lift
- Soften the jawline and chin
- Tighten jowls
Therapeutic Botox
Botox may be popular as a cosmetic treatment; however, it is, in fact, an effective and useful treatment method for a variety of medical conditions. It is approved for several medical applications included in the list below:
- Excessive sweating
- Chronic migraines
- Multiple eye conditions such as rapid eye blinking
- Post-stroke upper limb spasticity
- Overactive bladder
- Cold hands
- Scarring from the cleft lip (in babies)
- Neck spasms
How Long Does Botox Last?
The effects of Botox can vary depending on the patient and the treatment area. Botox treatment is temporary and if you are using Botox for cosmetic purposes, you will need to visit your Edmonton dentist for touch-ups after 3 to 4 months. After this time frame, the muscle action will begin to return to the treated area and cause the wrinkles and lines to reappear. Typically, the lines and wrinkles are less severe once they have returned. Some experts say that Botox has a prophylactic effect, which means it can prevent future wrinkles from forming.
Benefits & Side Effects of Botox Treatment
Botox is most effective on wrinkles that have not set on the face and appear while you’re moving your face such as when you smile, frown, or raise your eyebrows. In fact, if you don’t move your facial muscles too much, you won’t form a wrinkle. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you will need to speak with your dentist before starting Botox. Some side effects include the following:
- Headaches
- Bruising
- Mild pain at the site of the injection
You should inform your dentist about any supplements or medication you are taking before receiving Botox treatment. If you have any questions about Botox treatment that we have not answered in this article, contact our Edmonton dental clinic in Mill Woods and we will be happy to answer them.
