Botox in Central City, KY

Most people have heard of Botox injections to treat common cosmetic concerns such as wrinkles and lack of facial fullness. They tend to be less aware that they can also receive Botox injections from their dentist to treat certain orofacial conditions. Dr. David S. Morehead of Morehead Family Dentistry in Central City, Kentucky is pleased to offer Botox.

What Are Botox Injections Made From, and How Do They Work?

Botox is the shortened name of a bacterium known as botulinum toxin, which can be dangerous in its pure form. Ingesting botulinum toxin causes a food-borne illness called botulism. To ensure that patients receive only the therapeutic form of botulinum toxin, scientists separate its active neurotoxin during the harvesting process. Scientists then purify the active neurotoxin in a laboratory to make it safe and effective for a variety of cosmetic and medical purposes.

Doctors and dentists who give Botox injections use a liquid form of the beneficial parts of this bacterium. Once Botox enters the body, it attaches itself to nerve endings that control muscle movement. The toxin continues to work over the next several days to block nerve signals that cause muscles to contract.

Botox only impacts motor neuron nerves, which means that you retain full control of sensory neurons. The latter type of neuron is essential for feeling pain, temperature, and touch. A typical Botox injection produces the desired effects for three to four months.

The Use of Botox in Dentistry

According to the Journal of International Oral Health, dentists primarily offer Botox to their patients to treat the following orofacial conditions:

• Clenching of the teeth and jaws: Many people subconsciously clench their teeth and jaws during sleep or when under stress. This habit can lead to a variety of dental health problems, including TMJ.
• Lockjaw: The cause of lockjaw, medically known as tetanus, is when a bacterium called clostridium tetani gets into the bloodstream. The result is extreme stiffness in the neck and jaw, making it difficult to turn the head or swallow.
• Migraine headaches: Migraines are severe headaches that cause throbbing, light sensitivity, nausea, and several other symptoms.
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ): The temporomandibular joints are responsible for opening and closing your jaw. They can wear down due to stress, teeth grinding, and certain medical conditions.

Dr. Morehead has completed extensive treatment on the placement of Botox injections and the conditions treated with it. You should be aware that Botox does have potential side effects. These include:

• Discomfort, itching, and redness at the injection site
• Temporary muscle weakness or twitching
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing in extreme cases when the patient likely had an unknown allergy to Botox ingredients

Are you ready to put your orofacial problems behind you and start feeling better? Please contact Morehead Family Dentistry in Central City, Kentucky today.