Gone are the days when you had to visit a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist for Botox injections. Getting Botox was a lot less common, with fewer professionals carrying out the procedure, also making it more expensive. Today, dentists, with proper training, can carry out the procedure as well. Botox is used to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines to help correct and improve areas of the face affected by the ageing process.
Understanding Botox
If you’ve ever considered getting Botox, it’s important to understand what it is and what it does. Botox is the shortened trade name for botulinum toxin. It comes in the form of a purified protein, which is injected directly into the neuromuscular tissue. Botox, originally used for medicinal purposes, is now commonly used for cosmetic procedures.
Many people get Botox to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is most commonly injected on the upper third of the face – the forehead (horizontal and frown lines) as well as crows feet. Botox both prevents and corrects ‘dynamic’ ageing lines caused by muscle movement.
The protein attaches to the nerve endings and stops the nerve impulses from transmitting to the muscles. This stops the muscles from contracting, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The effect is usually noticeable after 5-8 days and has taken full effect after 2 weeks.
Botox treatments usually last on average, 3-4 months depending on a number of factors. It’s important to remember that Botox is a temporary treatment and must be repeated over time to maintain a consistent look.
Head to the Dentist
Today, a dentist may be able to perform this facial aesthetic treatment alongside other standard dental treatments.
Botox treatments work well within the dental community in a number of ways – especially since Botox can help with more than just cosmetic procedures.
Dentists commonly have patients suffering from bruxism (grinding), and Botox is a great option for those who suffer with it as it weakens the muscle contraction that normally occurs at night. Other areas where Botox can help is facial pain, excess sweating both under the arms, on the hands and feet, and is great for some types of migraines. This requires advanced training.
When treatment is administered by a trained professional, there are relatively few risks and complications with the procedure – including minor bruising, temporary swelling at the injection site, and skin redness. Asymmetry of facial expressions, drooping of upper eye lids and double vision can occur in the upper facial third, however, safe dosages into safe sights by experienced practitioners reduces this risk.
What’s more – dentists are actually best placed to work with Botox, as they are knowledgeable in facial anatomy and carry out injection procedures regularly.
“Botox is an elective cosmetic procedure and is a brilliant treatment we offer to patients. We are living in a generation where everyone wants to look younger for their age and Botox helps to achieve that. The treatment itself is so simple and easy to do that it is considered a ‘lunch-time treatment’ with relatively little or no down time." Dr Nadine Skipp, dentist and injectable cosmetic provider.
Finding the Right Dentist
When you’re considering Botox treatments, it’s important to make sure you find the right dentist. Not all dentists do these treatments, however, Rhodri John here at Absolute Dental is a qualified and experienced practitioner. As a medical procedure Botox should only be done in clinical environments.
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