Dr. Frank notes that he often uses Botox to help treat teeth grinding and clenching. "It's injected into the masseter muscles, tmj joint and temples to relax the musculature that's over contracting. When neuromodulators like Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, and Jeuveau are injected correctly into these muscles, the grinding can stop completely, the joints are slowed to function properly and pain is relieved for three to six months depending on severity." Dr. Frank goes on to explain that this can keep patients from causing chronic and permanent damage to their teeth and jaw over time. "The cosmetic issue of facial widening that accompanies these conditions can also be addressed and reduced for facial slimming effect."
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Gummy Smiles
According to Dr. Frank, Botox can work really well for a gummy smile, meaning a smile where a lot of gum tissue is exposed. "You have to do small amounts of test doses. Anything around the very complicated muscle activity of eating, drinking and breathing needs to be treated very cautiously."
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Brow Lift
"In my practice I use Botox for brow lifts — it usually allows for a two to three millimeter lift," says Dr. Frank. "It's important to only inject in between and in the eyebrow rim, not above the brow or in the forehead. This is a great option for people who may want a little lift, but aren't ready for surgery."
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Chronic Pain
There are a variety of non-cosmetic benefits attributed to Botox, some of which are approved by the FDA, some of which are not but are widely known while others continue to be studied. Knee pain, joint pain and pelvic muscle pain are just a few of the growing areas of interest worth discussing with your doctor if your pain isn't letting up with the use of traditional remedies.
