Botox is a popular treatment for lines and wrinkles, and it’s been safely used all over the world. But did you know that Botox was used in dentistry long before it made its debut in cosmetic treatments? Botox is a truly versatile substance that is still widely used in dental offices like yourdentist in Beavercreek, OH. Here are some ways that it’s commonly used.

Treating Chronic Facial Pain

Botox is an effective pain reducer. Some people have chronic facial pain, including trigeminal neuralgia and myofascial pain syndrome. By targeting certain muscles and nerves, Botox injections at your dentist’s office can reduce pain signals that come from your brain.

Managing Bruxism

Bruxism is a term for teeth grinding, and it’s another condition that can be treated with Botox. Injecting Botox into the jaw muscles reduces their activity and force, decreasing the force of grinding and helping to prevent further dental damage, even when the teeth grinding happens at night, which is usually the case.

Alleviating TMJ Pain

TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. In some cases, the pain is excruciating and debilitating. When a dentist uses Botox in the area of the jaw where the joint is, the muscles relax. This reduces or eliminates the tension in the jaw, and gets rid of the associated pain. Multiple injections over time can decrease the number of times that TMJ pain occurs, too.

Your dentist can tell you more about the availability ofBotox treatments in Beavercreek, OH. If you’re interested in Botox for cosmetic treatments, your dentist may be able to help with that, as well. Contact us today to learn more and get all your questions answered about this safe, versatile, and effective substance!