BOTOX: More Than A Cosmetic Solution

The Birth of BOTOX

Before BOTOX was used for cosmetic reasons, doctors were using it as a treatment to help patients who suffered from muscle spasms. One day, when an eye doctor in Vancouver was injecting BOTOX into a patient to treat her blinking and eye spasms, the patient asked that her forehead receive an injection too. The doctor confusingly asked whether she had experienced spasms in that area. and she responded that she had not. When asked why she wanted injections there, she replied “It makes my wrinkles go away.” Although it’s not the most exciting origin story, it’s worthwhile to note that, although BOTOX has become known as a primarily cosmetic treatment, it hasn’t always been that way.

BOTOX’s Evolution Throughout the Decades

For decades, only medical doctors have been approved to administer BOTOX injections. However, over the last decade or so, states have begun to extend the right to offer this service to dentists as well. This is because it’s a natural extension of their work, since they have spent years studying facial and oral structures. Some dentists have even dedicated time to studying the intersection between cosmetic dentistry and neuromuscular treatments as well, making them some of the best BOTOX providers in the country.

FDA-Approved BOTOX Uses

The FDA has determined that BOTOX is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of cosmetic and medical problems.

Some of the ones that are outlined on their website include:

• Chronic migraines in adult patients.
• Spasticity treatments in patients two years and older.
• Cervical dystonia, which can reduce chronic neck pain caused by abnormal head position.
• Excessive sweating that occurs under the arms and on the head.
• Strabismus, or crossed-eyes.

Several modern studies have also shown promising results with BOTOX when it’s used to treat chronic jaw pain, earaches, and other common symptoms that are results of TMJ dysfunction. Once injected, BOTOX helps relax and freeze overworked jaw muscles, providing much-needed relief.

In short, BOTOX offers it all. With treatment from a highly skilled and trained dental professional, you can achieve optimal results that can either boost your confidence or put a stop to chronic pain.

About the Author

Dr. Deborah Shoemaker is passionate about providing her patients with specialized care that they can’t find anywhere else. That’s why she has taken numerous postgraduate courses in neuromuscular dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Her advanced knowledge allows her to offer BOTOX injections to treat chronic pain caused by TMJ dysfunction or reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Exceptional Dentistry’s website or call 502-498-8297.