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Nov
Botox® and fillers … for wrinkles and so much more! FAQs about injectable treatments at the dentist’s office
Botox® is most often associated with cosmetic treatment to soften lines and wrinkles. However, Botox®‘s roots go back several decades. Before this injectable product was used cosmetically, it was solely used to treat medical conditions such as strabismus, an eye muscle disorder. At Family Dentistry of Caledonia, our dentists use Botox® and another injectable treatment, dermal fillers, for medical and cosmetic applications. So, our patients from across Western Michigan can amplify the results from their dental treatments by softening the likes of lines around the smile. They can also achieve lasting relief from the pain and other symptoms of TMJ Disorders.
What is Botox®?
Botox® is a group of treatments known as “neurotoxins” or “neuromodulators.” This is the clinical term for a solution/medical product specially formulated to relax the treated muscles. The active ingredient, botulinum toxin protein, blocks the messages from your nerves that tell specific, injected muscles to contract. A muscle that remains at rest does not contribute to new or worsening crow’s feet, frown lines, and other expression lines.
What does this have to do with dentistry?
While Drs Gary L. Scott and Allyson M. Grove use Botox® for cosmetic purposes, we also apply this injectable product to the lower portion of the face to resolve TMDs and related conditions. For instance, when injected precisely into the tense or “overstressed” muscles in the lower portion of the face, we can lift the pressure or force placed on the jaw joints. When this occurs, patients experience a reduction in the severity and frequency of chronic headaches, jaw and facial pain, jaw stiffness and “locking,” and other symptoms of TMD. It can also be used to restore the shape of a face and the contours of a jawline that has become overly “bulked up” due to untreated teeth grinding.
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Are dermal fillers the same as Botox®?
While both fillers and Botox® are injectable products, the similarities end there. Fillers are formulated with beneficial substances like Hyaluronic Acid. HA is a natural lubricant and moisturizer in the eyes, skin, and joints. Like other structural components of the skin, the production of natural HA declines with age. When injected into the skin, it has a plumping effect. So, fillers may be used to “fill in” depressions – from scars to wrinkles around the nose and mouth. These products can also be used to help with TMDs.
How do fillers work to ease TMD symptoms?
While Botox® relaxes the muscles responsible for TMD pain, dermal fillers help cushion and support the muscular tissue around the jaw joint. This lifts pain and tension in the treated area. Our patients finally enjoy sustained relief without dramatic interventions such as surgery.
How can I find out more?
Contact Family Dentistry of Caledonia today! Drs. Scott and Grove have specialized knowledge of oral anatomy and function, so you know that your injectable treatments are in safe and exceptional hands. To schedule your consultation at our office in Caledonia, Michigan, call us at (616) 816-5882.
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Dr. Gary L. Scott, DDS
Dr. Gary Scott is a highly experienced dentist with over 25 years of practice, having earned his DDS from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1996. Following graduation, Dr. Scott served in the U.S. Army, completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency and serving with distinction in the 10th Mountain Division. In 1999, he established Family Dentistry of Caledonia, where he continues to provide trusted care. With his dedication to patient well-being and community service, you can trust Dr. Scott to deliver compassionate, expert dental care for your family.
Dr. Allyson M. Grove, DDS
Dr. Ally Grove is a compassionate and dynamic dentist who graduated with her DDS from the University of Michigan in 2022. She holds a dual degree in Biology and Spanish from Ferris State University, where she was also a student-athlete. Dr. Grove is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care at Family Dentistry of Caledonia and is passionate about patient education and comfort. She strives to build lasting relationships with her patients through trust, personalized care, and a commitment to their well-being.