How Botox works as an anti-wrinkle injection treatment
If you are considering your choices for restoring your youthful appearance, you may be interested in learning about options other than plastic surgery. While a surgical facelift with a plastic surgeon will definitely provide results, it is not the only way to address fine lines and wrinkles on the face. Anti-wrinkle injections, such as Botox treatment, have become a popular option for both men and women in Columbus, Georgia, looking to address lines, wrinkles, and folds on the face. It is also minimally invasive and affordable when obtained with Dr. Devon Paris Krawchyk and the team at Gentle Dentistry of Columbus. Let’s take a closer look at Botox and how it works to turn back the hands of time!
What is Botox?
Dr. Paris describes Botox as a neurotoxic protein produced by Clostridium botulinum. It is commonly utilized in certain cosmetic procedures to relax the facial muscles and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and folds that develop on the face. Our dental team administers Botox injections using a fine needle into specific areas of the face, targeting dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions.
How does Botox work as an anti-wrinkle injection?
Botox works by blocking nerve signals to the facial muscles, preventing them from contracting and causing wrinkles. It also relaxes the muscles at the injection site, which does not allow for the muscle to contract as strong. Over time, this relaxation leads to a smoother and more youthful appearance.
How else do dentists use Botox?
Patients with conditions such as TMJ disorder or bruxism (teeth grinding) may also benefit from Botox injections. It relaxes the muscles in the jaw and reduces tension, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with these conditions. Another benefit to having Botox added for TMD issues is it will slim the face creating a more desirable, heart-shaped appearance.
Botox is also used in cosmetic dentistry to enhance the appearance of a gummy smile by reducing the activity of the muscles that lift the upper lip.
What can you expect during and after a Botox treatment?
During the procedure, Dr. Paris administers multiple small injections in the targeted areas of your face. For a first visit, the overall time considered would be roughly 30 minutes depending on number of sites treated.
Patients are expected to have small bruises at the injection sites, some mild discomfort and/or swelling afterward. Because of this, it is advised to plan on spending the rest of the day and perhaps the next day away from any social activities where makeup, alcohol, working out are involved. However, side effects are minor and temporary, with most patients able to go on with their day without downtime or interruption. It is HIGHLY encouraged to follow the post-op care given to the patient during their appointment in order to obtain the best result.
Do I need more injections?
Regular appointments should be made to maintain the results achieved with Botox anti-wrinkle injections. We often recommend patients schedule their Botox injection treatments anywhere from three to four months apart. Ultimately the time between appointments depends on how soon your facial muscles return to regular function. Once they have returned, it is time to receive your next injections!
How do I find out more about Botox injections?
At Gentle Dentistry of Columbus, we are excited to provide a wide range of solutions for new and returning patients in the Columbus, Georgia, area. If you are considering Botox injections, we invite you to call (706) 321-4330 to request a visit to 500 Brookstone Centre Pkwy, Building 300, Columbus, GA 31904.
