Botox injections are quite popular for treating cosmetic needs but can also be an alternative for treating some orofacial conditions. Some benefits when using Botox in dentistry have been observed as have the risks associated with these treatments. Therefore, before deciding to embark on Botox treatment all matters must be discussed with the patient in advance.
What is Botox?
Botox is a botulinum toxin drug obtained from Clostridium botulinum that is a bacterium. It may sound familiar because it is the same causing a rare but concerning foodborne illness known as botulism. The therapeutic neurotoxin which is active is harvested, separated, and purified in a laboratory for making it effective and safe for treatment.
The Functioning of Botox
Botox functions by attaching itself to the nerve endings controlling a muscle after a few hours of being injected into the muscle. Over the next few days, the toxins function by blocking the transmission of nerve signals causing muscle contractions. It only affects the nerves with connections to motor neurons ignoring the nerves connected to sensory neurons which are the receptors needed to feel pain, temperature, and touch according to experts. The blocking of the signals continues for approximately 3 to 4 months and the patient administered the treatment will begin experiencing the signs and symptoms as Botox begins to wear off. In such cases, another dose of Botox can be administered if desired by the patient.
The Use of Botox in Dentistry
The usage of Botox in dentistry has become popular and more studies are being conducted to investigate better uses for orofacial requirements. The dentist in Houston, TX, is offering Botox for treating extracapsular myogenic TMJ disorders, trismus along with the headaches associated with this condition.
Botox cannot be used as a standalone procedure in a dental office and therefore patients searching for a dentist near me to get Botox treatments must understand it can only be used as part of an entire treatment plant within a dental scope of practice. The dental professional offering the treatment must have received the education necessary along with the training before administering Botox. The dentist in South Houston representing Espili Dental advises that the laws governing the use of Botox are different in every state making it necessary for every patient to inquire with the licensing board of the state about the laws and regulations governing how this drug can be used in a dental office.
The Importance of Botox in Dentistry
The Dentist in South Houston, TX, notes that Botox is an alternative when other treatments have not been successful. It is gaining popularity in dentistry because it is helping dentists to treat cosmetic and physical conditions. However, discussing the treatment with the patient is essential because numerous patients don’t have enough information about how Botox can alleviate certain dental concerns.
Is Botox Suitable for Dental Offices?
Dentist South Houston states many healthcare providers who are not trained in the maxillofacial area are offering Botox treatments. Dentists, on the other hand, are fully equipped to handle procedures riskier than Botox. They have acquired the training and education needed for performing these procedures safely and effectively to patients who may be affected by various conditions.
Why Discussions Must Be Held by Dentists with the Patient?
Keeping the patient in the dark about any treatment is never a good option for any medical practitioner. Patients must be provided with information about the procedure being recommended as well as the product. The dentist in Houston, TX, discusses the risks, the number of appointments, cost, benefits, and the need to maintain Botox with repeated visits to the dental office. Dentists can also inform their patients that Botox delivers instant results with minimum or no downtime. The patient must be informed that repeat injections will be necessary every quarterly along with the costs associated with the treatment. Dentists must be open to discussing alternative treatments with patients who may find Botox unsuitable for themselves because of financial implications.
Botox can be an added benefit for dentists to meet the needs of patients and can be used to treat different types of medical as well as cosmetic concerns. Additional research is necessary for the dental use of Botox for educating patients and dental professionals. However, it must be confirmed that Botox treatments offered by dentists who are qualified in the maxillofacial area are a better option than having the treatment from a healthcare provider.