Botox

What is Botox?

Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a type of bacterium that blocks the release of acetylcholine — a neurotransmitter that sends signals to your muscle cells — effectively paralyzing the muscles at the injection site. As a cosmetic treatment, Botox is used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and prevent dynamic wrinkles — those caused by facial movements — from forming. Because it paralyzes and relaxes muscles, Botox is also an effective treatment for TMJ pain and chronic clenching.

How does Botox work?

Botox is injected directly into the muscle, preventing it from contracting. Within just a few short hours of injection, it attaches to the endings of your nerves to control the affected muscle. The Botox itself takes a few days to fully attach to the nerve endings and stop your muscle movements. It only affects motor neurons — neurons that help control muscle movements. Your sensory neurons, which control pain, temperature, and touch, are left untouched.

The effects of Botox injections, whether used for cosmetic purposes or pain relief, last for approximately three to four months. Once the effects begin to wear off, you can return to Dr. Ortale for additional treatments.

Am I a good candidate for Botox?

There are two main reasons Dr. Ortale may recommend Botox for you:

Botox for pain relief

Designed to prevent muscle contractions, Botox is often used by dentists and physicians to relieve chronic pain in patients with:

• TMJ
• Chronic jaw pain
• Chronic neck pain
• Tension headaches
• Migraines

Dr. Ortale is trained to administer Botox injections that affect your head and neck therapeutic trigger points. These regular injections have been shown to reduce muscle tension, alleviate pain, and improve patients’ overall quality of life.

Botox for youthful skin

Traditionally, Botox has been used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and prevent future lines from forming. Certified by the American Academy of Facial Aesthetics, Dr. Ortale has the training, experience, and understanding of facial aesthetics to deliver the most effective high-quality results. As a dentist, he has been trained to notice the fine details that add balance and beauty to a person’s face. This makes him uniquely qualified to administer Botox injections.

Dr. Ortale is well qualified to provide fantastic results with Botox, whether you suffer from chronic pain or just want to freshen up your look. For more information on your Botox options, call Kevin Ortale, DDS, PLC, or book an appointment online today.