Botox is a trendy word these days for its use in cosmetic enhancements. You might not think it would play a role in dental care, but it is the latest field to jump on the botox bandwagon. Of course, dental clinics aren’t using it to help “cure” wrinkles or provide miniature face lifts to those who want to reverse the aging process, but it does have other benefits!

Botox in the dental field is being used for procedures like TMD and implantology. There are dentists that complete other cosmetic procedures which may use botox or dermal filler to correct asymmetrical lips or other skeletal issues.

Applying botox to the face and mouth does require more care than it does when applied directly to the face. It’s necessary to use a local anethetic before applying to the sensitive areas. However, that’s always been the cost of beauty whether patients are choosing to use it out of necessity or a desire to improve their appearance.

Botox procedures in the dental office may be newer, and it isn’t something that many have heard of, but it’s definitely an emerging trend in the industry!

Via: Dental News, Image Via: Flickr CC

(Image Credit: Flickr Creative Commons)

1. Dental Anxiety – dental anxiety is a very common issue. This is what many Americans feel before visiting the dentist and when they arrive in the office. Anxiety in this instance refers to feelings of fear due to the unknown. It’s not a crippling fear, though it’s widespread since 75% of people face this.
2. Dental Fear – dental fear appears in individuals who have already had a procedure done that has caused pain or discomfort, and they are fearful of feeling those sensations again when it becomes time. For some people, dental fear can develop from a process as simple as teeth cleaning, or it may appear for something more invasive like a root canal. In some cases, it might not even be a previous experience, someone simply telling the patient about the pain or discomfort may cause this fear.
3. Dental Phobia – this is a real psychological aversion the visiting the dentist. Fear can arise just from seeing a dental office or something associated with the dentist. This category of fear can also be challenging for a dentist to treat when the patient is conscious

No matter which type of fear you may have when it comes to visiting the dentist, make sure that your oral health isn’t compromised. Talk to your dentist and see what they can do to make sure you receive appropriate treatment in a way that helps you remain more at ease.

Via: Medical News Today

(Image Courtesy Flickr Creative Commons)

1. Dental Implants – ToothSavers specializes in dental implants. Typically, these are applied for reasons beyond aesthetics as they are used following tooth loss or removal due to decay. They’re a more permanent and natural looking options than dentures, so they can really boost the self-esteem of patients
2. Dental whitening – white teeth is becoming of increasing importance to individuals. Since many don’t want to abstain from coffee or wine; two popular drinks that can cause discoloration they’re turning to whitening products instead. Over-the-counter options are available at retail stores but dental clinics can provide longer-lasting effects
3. Veneers – many celebrities are using veneers to change the look of their teeth. Essentially, they are a permanent overlay over existing teeth and can cover up discoloration or damage.
4. Gum surgery – gums can recede due to gum disease, aging and other issues. Grafting can rebuild the gums
5. Tooth contouring – for those that just aren’t satisfied with the shape of their teeth, would rather a smoother look, or have teeth that aren’t quite straight; contouring of the teeth can help improve the aesthetics.