Botox to Fix Gummy Smiles, Bruxism and TMJ Conditions
A “gummy smile” occurs when patients display an excess of tissue above their teeth when they smile. Injecting a small amount of Botox into the upper lip relaxes the muscles and reduces excess soft tissue display, creating a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Additionally, Botox can be used to treat conditions involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and grinding of teeth, also known as bruxism. A series of minor injections help relax the facial muscles around the temporomandibular joint—the joint specifically affected. Botox effectively relieves or eliminates headaches caused by jaw clenching, teeth grinding, or lockjaw.
The Process
At Cary Dental Associates, our team has extensive training in the muscle and skeletal structures of the face, and we know precisely where to place injections to treat the muscles associated with common dental issues. Once we identify the necessary injection sites, we will quickly administer Botox. The procedure causes minimal discomfort, so it does not require anesthesia.
After your appointment, you can return to your normal activities immediately. There may be mild bruising at the injection site(s), but it should fade within a few days. Full results typically become visible within anywhere from days up to a few weeks after treatment and will last for months.
