Botulinum toxin is a type of neuromodulator that can be directly injected into a patient’s facial muscles. Many dental practices are able to use this material to help improve the overall aesthetics of the patient’s face. This type of neuromodulator can help reduce and improve frown lines and wrinkles on the face. It can be used around the mouth, under the eyes, on the forehead and around the bridge of the nose.
Botulinum toxin is a type of purified toxin made from a specific type of bacteria. When injected into the body in large amounts it can cause generalised paralysis, often referred to as botulism. However, when this toxin is injected into the facial muscles in very small amounts it will only block the nerve signals from the targeted muscle group. This causes a very localised relaxation and weakness of the facial tissues, which allows the body to stop causing wrinkles and lines to appear on the face. Once these muscles are weakened by the toxin they will be unable to contract. Since the facial muscles will be unable to create wrinkles and lines, the skin will gradually smoothout as a result of this lack of use. Since the toxin is only injected in tiny amounts into specifically targeted areas of the face it will not affect the facial muscles that are needed to provide certain movements, such as raising the eyebrows.
Botulinum toxin treatments are well tolerated by the vast majority of patients who receive them. It usually takes about three to seven days to see the full results. A single injection treatment will typically last about three to four months. After this time period the muscle’s ability to move will return and another treatment will be required. After several treatments the muscles of the face eventually become atrophied, which reduces the likelihood that the muscle’s ability to contract will return. This produces longer lasting results as time goes by.
Botulinum toxin treatments can be applied as part of a comprehensive dental care programme. This helps improve the entire look of the face, while improving the appearance of the teeth. People who are interested in Botox in Kent should contact the dental team at the Parrock Dental and Implant Centre, which is led by Dr Rik Trivedi. They can be reached through their website at www.parrockdental.co.uk, by calling 01474 537191 or by stopping by the practice at: 189-191 Parrock Street, in Gravesend, Kent DA12 1EN.