Botox
Botox isn’t just for wrinkles! If you grind your teeth at night or experience jaw pain, Botox can help by targeting the facial muscles that cause your discomfort. At Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue, Dr. Angelique Freking is a trained, experienced Botox practitioner and can set up a treatment plan to alleviate a wide variety of facial issues. Call or book an appointment online to see if Botox can help you.
Botox Q&A
Why do dentists use Botox?
Dentists know more about the mouth, muscles that control the mouth, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) than any other medical professional. When it comes bruxism (a term for either tooth clenching or grinding), dentists are uniquely qualified to provide solutions to the damage and often painful symptoms that bruxers routinely suffer.
If you clench or grind your teeth at night and wake up with a sore jaw, or suffer from migraines related to TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) Botox may lessen your symptoms by reducing the amount those muscles can contract. And don’t worry - you will still have plenty of muscle to chew even the toughest food.
After injection, how long until the Botox takes effect?
In general it takes between 48-72 hours for the Botox to begin working, but expect to experience the full effects of the treatment after 14-21 days.
How long does Botox last?
Botox generally stays active for 4-6 months.
How often do I have to have Botox?
We typically recommend 2 treatments the first year, then 1-2 in the years after, because the muscles have reduced to their normal size and require less treatment. Patients who suffer migraines may require more treatments.
Will Botox make me look different?
Botox treatments can have the effect of slimming your face if your masseter muscles have bulked out your jawline. This is because chronic clenching or grinding causes your masseter muscles to bulk up (think of it as weightlifting for your jaw) which can make your face look ‘boxy’. Since Botox limits the amount your masseters can contract, they will return to their natural size, giving your face a slimmer look.
Can Botox fully replace my night guard?
No. Botox reduces the amount of muscle activity you have, thus reducing the amount of force (and potential damage) to your jaw joint. It does not directly protect your teeth or the bone surrounding them. If your dentist recommends a nightguard, you should try to wear it nightly. We promise - it will pay off in spades down the road.