Monticello Dental Center is proud to offer yet another service to our patients:
Dr. Kira Powell has received certification from F.A.C.E.S. to administer BOTOX®.
You might be asking yourself, “Why would I have my dentist give me BOTOX??” The answer to that question is easy. Almost all of the education dentists receive is based on being extremely familiar with everything from the neck up. Your mouth just happens to be where they spend most of their time.
BOTOX, or Botulinum Toxin, is a very helpful treatment in the dental field. While some patients may be familiar with Botox being used to help temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, that’s not all it can do.
Patients that suffer with migraines or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain may see relief from the treatment. It can also help with bruxism or if you think you have a “gummy” smile.
While BOTOX can help in all these dental related aspects, if there are concerns with frown lines, crows feet or those “elevens” between your eyebrows, Dr. Powell would be happy to help with that too.
Dr. Powell looks forward to answering any questions you might have about BOTOX in Big Lake, Minnesota, and whether it’s a good option for you.
Call our office at 763-263-7100 to schedule your consult today.
Frequently Asked Questions About BOTOX
What is therapeutic BOTOX, and how is it different from cosmetic BOTOX?
Therapeutic BOTOX uses the same prescription medication as cosmetic BOTOX, but the goal is different. In a dental office, it is used to reduce overactive muscle activity that contributes to TMJ disorders, jaw clenching, bruxism-related soreness and certain headache patterns. The focus is function, comfort and symptom relief.
How does BOTOX work for TMJ disorders, bruxism and headaches?
BOTOX works by temporarily reducing the strength of targeted muscles. When injected into specific jaw or facial muscles, it can help calm intense clenching or grinding forces and decrease muscle tension. That reduction may ease strain on the temporomandibular joints, lessen jaw fatigue and reduce headache triggers linked to muscle overuse.
When is BOTOX recommended in a dental office?
BOTOX may be recommended if you have persistent jaw tightness, facial muscle soreness, clenching or grinding symptoms, TMJ discomfort or headache patterns that appear related to muscle tension. It is often considered when more conservative options have not provided enough relief, or when muscle hyperactivity is a major part of your symptoms.
What areas are typically treated, and what does the appointment feel like?
Treatment commonly involves small injections into muscles such as the masseter (chewing muscle) and, in some cases, other muscles involved in clenching or tension. The appointment is usually brief. Most patients describe the injections as quick pinches. Our dentist will evaluate your symptoms and anatomy to determine the safest, most appropriate injection sites.
How soon will I notice results, and how long do they last?
Many patients notice gradual improvement over several days, with full effects often developing over one to two weeks. Results are temporary and commonly last a few months, although timing varies by individual, dosage, and muscle activity. Our dentist may recommend follow-up visits to evaluate your response and discuss an ongoing treatment schedule if needed.
Are there side effects or reasons I might not be a good candidate?
Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as tenderness at injection sites or short-term changes in how the treated muscles feel when chewing. Because BOTOX is a prescription medication, candidacy depends on your medical history, medications and symptoms. Tell our team about any allergies, neuromuscular conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, and prior reactions to injectables.