Myths About Botox You Should Know
Botox® wasn’t always just a cosmetic treatment. In fact, Botox was originally used as a treatment for an eye condition. In 2002, the FDA approved Botox for cosmetic uses. And studies show that Botox continues to broaden the horizons in the dental world.
Accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Roberto Palmieri knows how effective and transformative Botox can be. But here at Palmieri Dentistry in Mooresville, North Carolina, we also know that Botox is surrounded by many myths.
That’s why we’re here today to separate fact from fiction. Here are five myths about Botox — and the truth about what Botox can do for you and your dental care.
Myth #1: Botox only addresses fine lines and wrinkles
False! Botox is well known for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Botox can combat forehead wrinkles, eyebrow furrows, and lines around your eyes. However, that’s not where the power of Botox stops.
Botox can be incorporated into your smile makeover plan by improving the appearance of a gummy smile. If you’re bothered by a gummy smile, Botox can relax your upper lip, which can improve the look of your smile.
Botox can treat medical or dental conditions too, including symptoms of bruxism (teeth grinding) and migraines.
Dr. Palmieri uses Botox treatments to address both aesthetic and medical concerns. For example, you might request Botox to eliminate forehead creases while also using it to alleviate TMJ pain caused by clenching your jaw.
Myth #2: Botox is dangerous
Botox is a neurotoxin, and it’s tempting to think that anything labeled as a toxin is dangerous. So, is Botox toxic? The bacteria Clostridium botulinum and the botulinum toxin that it produces are dangerous; however, Botox is created using a purified protein from the botulinum toxin.
The FDA has deemed that Botox is safe to use when treatments are administered by a trained medical professional like Dr. Palmieri. The most common side effects of Botox injections are tenderness at the injection site, bruising, and mild redness.
Myth #3: Botox is painful
While it’s true that any injectable can hurt (even cosmetic ones), it’s important to realize that not all injections are created equally. For instance, most people say that Botox feels just like a small pinch. That’s because Botox injections use much smaller needles than other injectables.
But if you’re concerned about your comfort during a treatment, the area can be numbed with a cold pack or a topical anesthetic gel.
Myth #4: Your face looks frozen after Botox injections
The fear of looking frozen after Botox is a common myth. Botox achieves its goals by gently relaxing specific muscles, but treatments aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re administered in units by providers experienced in knowing how many units are needed.
Instead of looking frozen, your appearance looks softer, more relaxed. And the best part — you still have full control over your facial expressions.
Myth #5: Once you get Botox, you can’t stop
Botox isn’t addictive. There are no addictive ingredients in Botox and no studies to support that Botox itself is addicting. So how did this rumor start? The results! Botox works, and that’s why it’s one of the most requested cosmetic services.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Botox is the No. 1 requested nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in America, with over 1.5 million treatments performed each year.
When you see what Botox can do for you — whether that’s wrinkle reduction or bruxism relief — you might not want to stop.
Ready to give Botox a try?
At Palmieri Dentistry, we want you to love your smile. Whether you’re interested in Botox or other cosmetic services like a smile makeover, we’re here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
For questions about Botox or to request a visit, give us a call at 704-247-6336 to schedule your appointment.
