Understanding Neurotoxin® Treatment Frequency and Aftercare
What Is a Neurotoxin® Treatment?
It is a cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a Neurotoxin into targeted muscles to paralyze them temporarily. Physicians typically use botulinum toxin type A, commonly known as Botox®. The temporary paralysis should reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.
How Does the Treatment Work?
During the procedure, your physician will Inject a small amount of the neurotoxin into the specific muscle in your face. It is generally a quick procedure that does not require anesthesia for numbing. Once the neurotoxin is in your system, it blocks the release of a chemical called acetylcholine, which is responsible for transmitting signals from nerves to muscles. The outcome is that the muscles are temporarily paralyzed or weakened, which prevents the targeted muscles from contracting. This outcome is useful in a variety of medical and cosmetic applications.
Ultimately, the specific mechanism of action for Neurotoxin treatments can vary depending on the condition. Still, the basic principle of blocking the release of acetylcholine remains the same.
What Areas of the Face Can Be Treated with Neurotoxin®?
Neurotoxin® treatments in Tracy, CA, commonly treat skin imperfections in targeted areas of the face, usually the forehead, eyebrows, and around the eyes. Some of the problems that Neurotoxin treatments can address include the following:
- Frown lines between the eyebrows
- Horizontal forehead lines
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
- Migraines
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle spasms
How Quickly Can Patients Expect To See Results After A Neurotoxin® Treatment?
The timeframe for seeing results after a neurotoxin® treatment will often vary depending on the patient and the type of Neurotoxin. For example, Botox® typically takes 3-5 days to start working and reaches maximum efficacy after about 2 weeks. Generally, many patients begin to see the effects of the treatment within a few days, with optimal results evident after two weeks. Some neurotoxins like Dysport® may start working a little faster, with some patients seeing results within 24-48 hours and up to a week to reach maximum effectiveness.
Can Neurotoxin Treatment Benefit Your Oral Health?
Neurotoxin treatment, specifically with Botox®, has been seen to offer benefits for oral health in certain cases. Here are some examples of how dentists in a dental office in Tracy, CA, can use Neurotoxins to benefit your oral health:
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) – is a condition that affects the jaw joint causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty with jaw movement. Botox® injections into the muscles that control jaw movement can relieve TMD symptoms.
- Bruxism – is a condition of excessive teeth grinding and clenching, often while sleeping. It can cause headaches, jaw pain, and tooth damage. Botox® injections into the muscles help reduce muscle activity, alleviating symptoms of bruxism.
- Gummy smile – entails showing excessive gum tissue when you smile, making your teeth appear small or disproportionate. Dentists in a dental clinic near you will inject Botox® into the muscles that lift the upper lip to reduce the amount of gum tissue visible and improve the smile.
How Long Do the Results Last?
Usually, the effects of the treatment last for several months, anywhere from 3-6 months. Afterward, the body gradually breaks down the neurotoxin, and the muscle regains normal function. When this occurs, the procedure may need to be repeated. Therefore, keep in contact with our dental team at Valley View Dental in case you need another injection to continue the treatment or opt for a different solution.
Are There Risks of Neurotoxin Treatments?
Generally, Neurotoxin treatments are considered safe, even for use in dental procedures and addressing other health problems like migraines. Still, they carry some risks, including bruising, swelling, and temporary drooping of the eyelids. It is crucial to receive treatment from a qualified and experienced medical professional to ensure the best possible results and minimize the risk of complications.
Tips for Maximizing Effectiveness and the Results of Treatment
Some tips to help maximize the effectiveness and longevity of neurotoxin treatment are:
- Choose an experienced, skilled, and qualified healthcare provider.
- Follow the aftercare instructions – they may vary depending on the type of neurotoxin and the treatment area.
- Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area – it will cause the neurotoxin to spread to unintended areas. Instead, avoid touching the treated area altogether for several hours after the injection.
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the treatment and the days after.
- Avoid intense physical activity – it causes the neurotoxin to break down more quickly. Therefore, avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after the injection.