Improving Dental Health with Botox?

When you mention Botox, most people think of facial treatments. Indeed, Botox improves facial esthetics by smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. However, Botox also addresses a number of serious dental problems, including TMJ disorder and bruxism.

Botox and Dermal Fillers

Botox involves injecting a small dosage of the Botulinum toxin into the facial muscles.  The toxin then blocks messages being relayed from the nerves to the muscles. This causes muscles to immediately relax, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, such as crow’s feet or frown lines. Your Park Ridge cosmetic dentist offers both Botox and dermal fillers to treat dental issues and provide a cosmetic benefit as well.

Easing TMJ Disorder and Bruxism

How does a cosmetic procedure designed to improve facial beauty help decrease the symptoms of teeth grinding and TMJ disorder? TMJ disorder develops when the jaw joints, also known as temporomandibular joints, undergo excessive strain. As a result, patients have difficulty opening and closing their mouths and may experience chronic headaches, a popping sensation in the jaw, earaches, and neck pain. With a Botox treatment, the jaw muscles can relax, reducing the strain behind TMJ disorder. Bruxism refers to the grinding or clenching of a person’s teeth. Over time, untreated bruxism can crack, chip, or even wear down the teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and infection. By administering Botox, the jaw muscles relax and stop episodes of teeth grinding. In most cases, bruxism is the result of stress and anxiety, causing the muscles to become tense. By easing the tension in the jaw and facial muscles, patients are less likely to grind their teeth. If you have any questions about our Botox treatments, please contact your Park Ridge cosmetic dentist today.

Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry

Would you like to obtain a gorgeous smile with cosmetic dentistry? Then schedule a consultation with your Park Ridge cosmetic dentist today. Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas are highly-skilled restorative and cosmetic dentists serving the Park Ridge and surrounding Chicago communities. To schedule an appointment, call Loukas General Dentistry today at (847) 696-1919.