What is Botox?
Botox is a widely recognized brand of neuromodulating agents. It contains Botulinum Toxin, a purified protein that has both cosmetic and therapeutic applications.
The Botox process involves injections containing purified bacteria into the areas of concern to freeze the muscle at the injection point. When injected into the facial muscles, Botox releases neurotoxins, that are responsible for preventing the muscles from contracting which in turn helps them to relax.
At Cornerstone Dental Group and Civic Dental, Dr. Rex Hawthorne is trained in both upper and lower face Botox treatments.
Botox Treatment: What To Expect
Before Treatment
Your dental team will address any questions and concerns you have prior to the treatment to ensure your desired results are understood.
The injection is directed into the muscle under the skin. The needle is very fine in order to help prevent any pain, bruising, or swelling and is commonly compared to the feeling of a small pinch or bite from a bug.
After Treatment
After your treatment, it is important to avoid particular activities for the first several hours. You must not lay down, or bend your head for a sustained period of time.
It is important to not touch or rub the treatment area afterward in order to to avoid moving the Botox and affecting other muscles. In rare cases, there is a chance that some people may experience headaches after a Botox injection.
Botox FAQs
- How long does a Botox treatment take, and what is involved?
Usually, a Botox treatment takes 15-25 minutes and will not require the use of anesthesia. A fine needle is used to inject Botox into specific muscles, and topical anesthesia (numbing cream) may be used.
- Is Botox safe?
Our authorized prescribers are familiar with the relevant anatomy. They will employ measures associated with the safe and effective use of BOTOX, which include proper storage, selection of the correct dose, and proper administration techniques. Our clinicians will provide patient-specific care and, for your safety, it will be important for you to include any information about previous surgeries that you have had when requested.
- How long does a Botox treatment last?
This will depend on how quickly each person metabolizes it, but typically Botox treatments last around 3-5 months,
- What is included with the first consultation?
During your first consultation, our dental team will conduct a complete facial and/or dental assessment in order to recommend the appropriate treatment for you to achieve your goals. If they conclude that Botox is right for you, your treatment appointment will be booked.
- Is there anything I should do to prepare for treatment?
Yes. Avoid alcohol starting about one week before the procedure. We also recommend that you stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before treatment to reduce bruising.
- What are the risks associated with Botox?
Side effects from Botox are rare, and if they do occur, are typically mild and pass quickly. They can include:
• Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site
• Headache or flu-like symptoms
• Droopy eyelid or eyebrows
• Crooked smile or drooling
• Eye dryness or excessive tearingIf you do experience more than mild side effects that last hours to weeks after receiving Botox, call us immediately.
- Who should avoid Botox treatment?
Botox treatment is not made for everyone and should be avoided by:
• People with infection at the proposed injection site.
• People who have previously had an allergic reaction to Botulinum toxin type A injections.
• People with muscle problems or chronic diseases affecting the muscles.
• Children under the age of 18 years.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. - What are the recommendations for aftercare?
• Try to contract the treated muscle areas periodically for up to four hours after treatment, by frowning and lifting eyebrows to allow the toxin to reach all of the treated muscle.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the injected areas and avoid having facials and massages for 48 hours to ensure that the treatment remains at the site of injection.
• Avoid vigorous exercise and alcohol-based products on the area treated for 48 hours.