I am proud to say that I have all my own teeth at the age of 65. While that may not sound unusual to some people, everyone in my family who is my age or older wears dentures. I always tell people that that flossing is the key to good dental health. I have arthritis in my hands, but I don't let it keep me from flossing every day. My trick is to use those little "flossers" you can buy at the drug store. They have plastic handles floss stretched out on top of the handle. These make flossing easier on days when my arthritis is acting up. I started this blog to let other people know that they can keep their teeth healthy into old age when they take care of them. If you have hand pain, find ways to make flossing easier, like I did.
Don't Let Hand Pain Keep You from Flossing
How Does Botox and Dentistry Mix? What You Need to Know
Francis Miles
When you hear the word Botox, you may automatically assume it refers to a person getting injections into his or her face to appear more youthful. Although it is a popular use for Botox, this treatment is rapidly growing in different areas of healthcare. Even dentistry is utilizing Botox for clinical treatments. Here is what you should know about Botox and dentistry:
How Does Botox Work?
Botox acts as a nerve agent that helps to control the movement of muscles. The medication prevents muscle contraction and helps to soften the skin near the injection site for a period of time. Botox is not permanent and must be administered periodically, based on its application.
How Is Botox Used in Dentistry?
Because Botox acts as a nerve-blocking agent, dentists can use the medication for a variety of dental issues. Temporal Mandibular Joint Disorder, or TMJ, is one issue that can be helped with Botox. This condition is very painful, but Botox injections can block the nerve that causes pain. You will need to go back to the dentist for periodic injections.
You can also have Botox injections for teeth grinding, as the medication helps to prevent the involuntary movement of the jaw. These are just a few examples of how Botox can be used in dentistry.
Is Botox in Dentistry Controversial?
To some, the use of Botox injections to treat oral problems may seem controversial. In areas where Botox is not a common treatment, it may seem unorthodox to use it in a dental practice. You may be afraid of the outcome or what you might look like after the treatment. However, Botox is used every single day to help a variety of issues, none of which have to do with vanity. For example, Botox helps those who suffer from migraines or those who sweat profusely in certain parts of the body. So, it stands to reason that Botox can be helpful in treating certain oral maladies.
Dentists know all there is to know about the mouth, jaw, and teeth. A dentist is who you would want to treat you with Botox if you are considering it for your dental problem. Keep in mind dentists administer injections to all parts of the face and mouth each day, so they are skilled in making the process as pain-free as possible.
If you are still unsure if Botox can help you, look for a dentist in your area who offers this type of treatment. Make an appointment for a consultation to learn more about how Botox is used so you can decide if it is something you want to move forward with.
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