Our dental team at our Chilliwack office offers Botox injections to our patients when it may be able to help their dental conditions.
What is Botox?
Botox is a widely recognized brand of neuromodulating agents. It contains Botulinum Toxin, a purified protein with both cosmetic and therapeutic uses.
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, which prevent the muscles from contracting and help them to relax.
At Promontory Dental, Dr. Kim is trained in both upper and lower face Botox treatments.
Botox Treatment: What To Expect
Before Treatment
All of your questions and concerns will be addressed before treatment starts to ensure your desired results are understood.
Some have described the injections as a mild pinch, similar to a bug bite. 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.
After Treatment
After your treatment, it is important to avoid certain activities for the first several hours. You must not lay down, or bend your head for a sustained period of time.
Do not touch or rub the treatment area to avoid moving the Botox and affecting other muscles. In rare cases, some people report getting headaches after a Botox injection.
Botox FAQs
How long does Botox treatment take, and what is involved?
Usually, treatment takes around 15-25 minutes and doesn't require anesthesia. A fine needle is used to inject Botox into specific muscles, and topical anesthesia (numbing cream) can be used.
Is Botox a safe option?
Our authorized prescribers are familiar with the relevant anatomy. They will employ measures designed for the safe and effective use of Botox, which includes the proper storage, selecting the right dose, and proper administration techniques. Our clinicians will provide patient-specific care and, for your safety, may inquire about any alterations to the anatomy such as prior surgical procedures.
How long will a Botox treatment last?
Botox treatments generally last 3-5 months, depending on how the individual person metabolizes it.
What is included with the initial appointment?
During your initial consultation, our dentists conduct a comprehensive facial and/or dental assessment and recommend the optimal treatments to achieve your goals. If they conclude that Botox is right for you, your treatment appointment will be booked
Is there anything I can 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 transient. They can include:
- Crooked smile or drooling
- Headache or flu-like symptoms
- Droopy eyelid or eyebrows
- Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site
- Eye dryness or excessive tearing
If you do experience more than mild side effects that last hours to weeks after receiving Botox, call us immediately.
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 the eyebrows to allow the treatment to reach all of the muscles.
- 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.
Who should avoid Botox treatment?
Botox treatment should be avoided by:
- Children under the age of 18 years.
- People who have previously had an allergic reaction to Botulinum toxin type A injections.
- People with muscle problems or chronic diseases affecting the muscles.
- People with infection at the proposed injection site.
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding