The Origin & History of BOTOX
Louisville, KY
Today, many people associate BOTOX strictly with cosmetic enhancements, like getting rid of fine lines and wrinkles. However, it hasn’t always been used in that way. When you visit your dentist for injections to minimize signs of aging, know that the small syringe of diluted botulinum toxin is capable of improving people’s lives in a variety of other ways as well. You can learn more about the history of this treatment and how far it has come since scientists first tried to isolate the bacteria in the 1920s by reading on.
What is BOTOX?
BOTOX is a name given to the diluted form of botulinum toxin, which is a bacteria. The controlled substance is used by dentists, doctors, and health professionals across the country to help people look more youthful by minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Although this is its most common use as of today, it hasn’t always been that way. As scientific advancements progress, researchers are finding that it has many great purposes that can provide patients with relief, comfort, and boosted confidence from a variety of issues.
The History & Origin of BOTOX
The origin of botulinum toxin, known as Clostridium botulinum, was first discovered by a scientist following a botulism outbreak in a Belgian town. In the 1920s, scientists in California attempted isolating botulinum toxin, which is produced by Clostridium botulinum and were unsuccessful. Nearly 20 years later, a doctor named Edward Schantz successfully isolated it in its crystalline form.
BOTOX was first used by researchers in the 1970s to treat crossed eyes. Once scientists had great success with these trials, the product became licensed and branded as BOTOX. Since then, the FDA has approved BOTOX for a variety of medical and cosmetic uses.
The Many Versatile Uses of BOTOX
In the past couple of decades, scientists have been researching other ways to utilize BOTOX to help improve patients’ lives.
Since it’s first FDA-approved use for crossed eyes in 1989, it has also been proven as an effective and safe treatment for the following:
- Cervical dystonia, which is a painful condition where neck muscles contract involuntarily (2000)
- Vertical lines that develop between the eyebrows as a result of frowning (2002)
- Excessive sweating from the armpits (2004)
- Chronic migraines (2010)
- Involuntarily upper lip spasms (2010)
- Urinary incontinence (2011)
- Crow’s feet, or lines at the tip of the eyes furthest from the nose (2013)
As the years go by, researchers are finding out that BOTOX has a lot more to offer patients. In fact, there are many uses for this treatment that have not yet been approved by the FDA, such as BOTOX being used to treat TMJ dysfunction that causes jaw pain. Many dentists and professionals are beginning to introduce these treatments into their practices, allowing you to get the quality and up-to-date care you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Patrick Carroll has decades of experience under his belt and is dedicated to helping improve his patient’s quality of life in whatever way he’s able to. He is passionate about continuing his education and learning everything there is to know about dentistry and the facial structure. He is the only LVI-trained dentist in Kentucky who offers unique neuromuscular and cosmetic dentistry knowledge, providing him with a strong foundation for administering BOTOX treatments that yield effective results. For questions about BOTOX or to schedule a consultation, visit Exceptional Dentistry’s website or call 502-498-8297.
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