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3 Areas in Dentistry That Rely on Botox Treatment

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Cosmetics and maintenance of a youthful face are probably the first two things that come to mind when you hear about Botox, and you would not be wrong. Botox has been a popular cosmetic procedure for a long time, and professional beauticians and cosmetic surgeons commonly administer it. However, current trends in dentistry suggest that Botox is not restricted to the cosmetics industry. Today, Botox treatment is being used in dentistry and has become part of specific dental treatments. This article highlights different ways that Botox treatment is being used in dentistry. 

Assist in Bruxism Treatment 

Bruxism or teeth grinding affects a significant number of Australians today. The worst part is that bruxism patients do not know the damage teeth that grinding causes. In adults, the effects of bruxism can be severe because of developed muscles around the jaws and temples. Thus, dentists are turning to Botox to help address severe teeth grinding cases. For instance, Botox injections help minimise bruxism effects by relaxing the primary jaw muscles, reducing the force exerted on the teeth enamel. In addition, when used as an adjunct treatment to night guards, Botox injections can accelerate the recovery process.   

Relieve TMJ Paint 

Temporomandibular joint disorder can be painful and intense for most patients. The disorder affects the Temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which acts as a hinge between the upper and lower jaw. As muscles surrounding the TMJ become hyperactive, the gap between the joint reduces, causing the bone surfaces to grind against each other. Other than excruciating pain, TMJ disorder can cause the jaws to lock, making chewing or yawning a challenge. In the past, treatments for TMJ disorder patients were limited to medication, bite guards and physiotherapy. However, it is no longer the case today since dentists are increasingly using Botox injections to control hyperactive muscles around the TMJ region. The injections offer efficient pain relief and reduce instances of locked jaws.  

Ease Denture Treatment for Edentulous Patients 

Experienced dentists are not new to patients with complicated dental issues, and edentulism is a perfect example. The reason is that the lack of teeth decreases the vertical dimensions of the lip regions, causing lip muscles to reposition. The condition makes it difficult for dentists to mould dentures that fit an edentulous patient. However, Botox is proving to be a godsend solution in dentistry due to its role in treating patients that been toothless for a long time. Botox injections around the lips help relax and re-form the muscles around the dentures. Thus, several Botox injections make the transition to dentures easy for toothless patients. 


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