Botox

Botox has been found highly effective in the field of dentistry. It is used in several types of treatments not associated with wrinkles.

Botox relieves pain in patients with TMD (temporomandibular disorder) by relaxing jaw muscles that have become inflamed and otherwise painful from conditions such as bruxism (teeth clenching) or simple hyperactivity of the muscle. Before Botox was found to be effective, TMD patients only had anti-inflammatories and pain medications available for pain relief. When these fail, a Botox injection may be the next best strategy.

Mouthguards may be recommended along with a Botox injection. The mouth guard reduces the stress on the jaws of the clenching (and protects the tooth enamel).

A gummy smile is a term for having a high lip line. Botox is a less aggressive option for the treatment of a gummy smile. The injection is usually temporary but relaxes the muscles of the lip to lower the smile line. Crown lengthening or gingival surgery would be more permanent solutions for a gummy smile.

Muscle deterioration due to substantial tooth loss can lead to ill-fitting dentures. Botox has been found to allow for muscle retraining and easier fitting dentures.

Stines Family Dentistry can provide more details on how Botox can help you.