BOTOX

Purified botulinum toxin (BTX) has been around for over 30 years. It has been well-researched and documented over this time. Since its introduction into clinical use it has become a versatile drug in various fields of medicine including dentistry. 

Over the last decade, there has been a surge in novel and relevant uses for this drug. We now know of more than 800 different uses! In dentistry, BTX is used in cosmetic applications for the treatment of facial wrinkles. Conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ or TMD), bruxism and clenching and certain types of headaches are also treated with BTX. 

A common misconception with BTX is that it will change the appearance of one’s face. Botox is a protein which relaxes musculature in a reversible way. Facial features will not change. Fillers, as the name implies, can fill in certain facial features and will gently change one’s appearance. Although Fillers and BTX have different indications, they work hand-in-hand to help create a desired outcome.

BTX is a protein that causes temporary denervation of skeletal muscle by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACH). It is considered a neuromodulator of ACH. This produces relaxation of the muscle activity without any systemic effects. Following the inhibition of muscle contraction, sprouting of new nerve terminals is believed to occur which results in regeneration and the reestablishment of neuromuscular transmission. BTX has a large margin of safety with potential side effects such as mild pain, edema, headaches and redness around immediately injected areas. Within 24 hours, these effects disappear.

Clinical effect occurs within approximately 3–7 days after administration, followed by 2 weeks of maximum effect, which then levels off to a moderate plateau until full nerve recovery within 3–6 months (typically at approximately 4 months).