Lines are wrinkles are a part of life, but they don’t have to become a distracting cosmetic concern. As a part of our patient-centered office, we respect the relationship between the smile and the face as a whole. Our experienced team understands that a beautiful smile is one aspect of feeling your best. For that reason, we are pleased to offer Botox injections as a popular cosmetic treatment in our Pembroke Pines office.
What is Botox and how does it work?
Botox is an injectable that has been used cosmetically since the 1990s. Before that time, the drug, made with Clostridium botulinum, had been widely used as a clinical therapy for concerns like blepharospasm and other muscular disorders. Since its FDA approval in 2002, Botox Cosmetic has been frequently used to treat various dynamic wrinkles, as well as medical conditions including overactive bladder and migraines. It is referred to as a neuromodulator, which means that it works on muscle function. This is what makes Botox so ideal for the correction of dynamic wrinkles. These are the lines and creases that become etched in the skin over time. These lines first appear only when we make expressions like frowning, squinting, or laughing. Earlier in life, the dynamic wrinkles disappear when the face is at rest. With age and repetition, however, they become permanent. As a neuromodulator, Botox directly blocks the nerve transmissions involved in muscle contractions. Without nerve transmissions, the targeted muscles cannot contract as strongly as they would. In the absence of these contractions, the skin can lie smoothly over the muscle.
Not all wrinkles are created equally. With age, the skin loses some of its firmness, elasticity, and volume. These changes also result in lines and creases but, because these are not related to muscle movements, they require a different approach. To achieve more substantial facial rejuvenation, many people combine their Botox treatment with dermal fillers, products that work by restoring adequate volume in the different layers of the skin. Our team is properly trained in the use of both Botox and dermal fillers, and we know how to adeptly differentiate between the various types of wrinkles that occur with age.
Not all wrinkles are created equally. With age, the skin loses some of its firmness, elasticity, and volume. These changes also result in lines and creases but, because these are not related to muscle movements, they require a different approach. To achieve more substantial facial rejuvenation, many people combine their Botox treatment with dermal fillers, products that work by restoring adequate volume in the different layers of the skin. Our team is properly trained in the use of both Botox and dermal fillers, and we know how to adeptly differentiate between the various types of wrinkles that occur with age.
What can Botox help with?
Botox has been used millions of times since its approval for cosmetic use. Some of the most popular uses for this drug include:
- Horizontal forehead lines / "worry lines"
- Crow's feet at the outer corners of the eyes
- Descended brows
- Frown lines between the eyebrows
- Bunny lines on the upper part of the nose
- Dimpled chin
- Smile lines or marionette at the corners of the mouth
- Gummy smile
- Botox Lip Flip
- Horizontal neck bands
How can Botox be combined with dental treatments?
We have found that Botox is an excellent complement to various dental treatments. As we say, beauty extends beyond just a beautiful smile. Our patients can benefit from combining Botox with various cosmetic dental treatments, including full-mouth restoration, teeth whitening, and teeth straightening treatment. Adding Botox onto any cosmetic dental treatment can enhance the overall effect on the face.
What is the benefit of receiving Botox from a dentist?
Your dentist has specialist knowledge that goes beyond the teeth and gums. Our training also involves the in-depth study of facial anatomy. The maxillofacial area spreads from the forehead all the way to the chin, so we know where all of the muscles are located, how they work, and how they tug on the skin. We are also aware of the locations of vital vessels and nerves, so know how to perform cosmetic injections safely and effectively.
How long do results from Botox last?
Once Botox has been injected into target muscles, the effects are not reversible. They do wear off, though. On average, the results from Botox injections build over five to seven days, and they last three to five months. According to FDA regulations, Botox injections can be safely repeated every 90 days as needed to maintain the rejuvenating effects of treatment.
Are there any risks associated with Botox injections?
Botox injections should be performed only by fully trained, licensed, and board-certified providers. This can be a nurse, doctor, or dentist. With proper injection techniques, the risks of complications are very low. The most common side effects that patients experience after their Botox injections include bruising, minor swelling, and redness at the injection sites. Normally, these side effects are so mild that patients can return to work and normal activities without concerns related to appearance. Botox may also cause a temporary headache and flu-like symptoms. These should resolve on their own within a few hours to a few days. Though very rare, complications such as asymmetrical eyebrows or a droopy eyelid or droopy mouth corners may occur. Some people experience an adverse allergic reaction to the neurotoxin in Botox. Signs of an adverse reaction include muscle weakness, breathing difficulty, problems swallowing, trouble speaking, and vision problems. If these symptoms occur, it is necessary to call the doctor immediately or visit the nearest emergency room. Complications from Botox injections can be treated.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
We enjoy bringing more life back into our patients’ smiles and faces. To schedule your consultation for Botox treatment, contact us at (954) 432-4800.
