Botox Cosmetic is a neurotoxin that originates from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Although this toxin is infamous for causing botulism, a type of food poisoning, it has several medical applications when used under controlled dosing. Botox Cosmetic acts by weakening or paralyzing specific muscles or blocking the pathway of certain nerves.
Medical Uses
Botox Cosmetic is commonly used in small doses in the medical community to treat various conditions such as:
Temporarily smoothing facial wrinkles caused by muscle contractions.
Controlling overactive underarm sweating.
Managing cervical dystonia, a neurological disorder that causes severe shoulder and neck contractions.
Treating uncontrolled blinking of eyes (blepharospasm).
Addressing overactive bladder.
Correcting misaligned eyes (strabismus).
Managing chronic migraine headaches.
Procedure
Botox Cosmetic is administered through fine gauge needles directly into the neuromuscular tissues. It usually takes just a few minutes and does not require local anesthesia. Results are typically noticeable 3-7 days after the treatment. However, pregnant or lactating women and individuals who have had a previous allergic reaction to Botox Cosmetic should not receive treatment.
Dental Uses
Botox Cosmetic can also be used by dentists for various cosmetic and functional dental issues, including:
Softening facial lines and wrinkles such as crow's feet, forehead furrows, frown lines, lip lines, and bunny lines.
Reducing neck bands.
Relieving pain from headaches caused by tension in muscles in the head, face, and neck.
Addressing relapse of teeth following orthodontic treatment completion caused by an overactive mentalis muscle.
Improving the appearance of skin dimpling of the chin.
Reducing pain from headaches due to occlusal (bite) issues.
Reducing bruxism, a condition that involves grinding and clenching of teeth.
Lifting the corners of the mouth.
Softening a square jawline.
Correcting a gummy smile due to over-retracted upper lips.
Training
Dentists are ideal practitioners for delivering Botox in the head and neck region as they receive advanced training in oral and maxillofacial areas. When selecting a dentist for Botox Cosmetic, look for one with proper certification and insurance. The certification should include at least 16 hours of live hands-on patient training.
If you are interested in Botox Cosmetic aesthetic treatment for a smile makeover, schedule a no-cost cosmetic consultation appointment with Marielaina Perrone DDS at (702) 458-2929. The practice is located in Summerlin, Henderson, and Las Vegas, NV.
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