Botulinum Toxin (Botox®) Treatments & Services

Botox is the most well-known neuromodulator, but other types include Dysport and Xeomin.  All are safe, injectable purified proteins that have both therapeutic and cosmetic uses.  Once injected, a neuromodulator will temporarily relax the targeted muscles in the area.  This will reduce the tension in the muscle with both a functional and aesthetic benefit by softening and smoothing the appearance.

Initially, a consult would confirm that you are a candidate for Botox Therapy.  A comprehensive dental exam will be completed to assess your individual concerns. A review of previous therapies used, history of dental and/or medical problems and other factors will be considered to arrive at the optimal treatment to achieve your goals. Examination and advanced computer analysis of muscle activity using electromyographic sensors (EMGs) may be utilized to assess bite force and muscle activity.

In cases where other therapies have not been effective treatment, neuromodulators (such as Botox or Dysport) are also highly effective in relaxing muscles that are responsible for headache pain, tension headaches, bruxism (grinding) and clenching. If Dr. Larson concludes that Botox or Dysport treatment is the right approach for you, a treatment appointment will be arranged.

Before treatment and during you first consultation, a comprehensive dental exam will be completed to assess your individual concerns.  A review of previous therapies used, history of problems and other factors (including dental and medical history) will be considered to arrive at the optimal treatment to achieve your goals.

As the neuromodulator temporarily relaxes the muscles, it can be used as an adjunctive therapy for a number of dental functional concerns such as:

• Headaches and migraines related to muscle tension
• Pain management for chronic clenching and grinding
• Facial changes related to jaw muscle (Masseter) over-contraction with muscle tightness and pain

• Most individuals experience little to no discomfort with the procedure
• There is little downtime
• Results can last 3-4 months depending on the individual’s metabolism
• Follow-up treatment procedures take 15-30 minutes

A typical Botox treatment takes 15-25 minutes and doesn't require anesthesia. A fine needle is used to deliver Botox into specific muscles, and topical anesthesia (numbing cream) may be used.

Serious side effects are rare and most disappear shortly after treatment.

Possible effects include:

• Temporary bruising
• Temporary site redness and swelling
• Eyelid drooping
• Headache after treatment
• Eye dryness or excessive tearing

Dr. Larson has trained with Dr.  Warren Roberts from the Pacific Training Institutes for Facial Aesthetics and Therapeutics (PTIFA).  She has completed rigorous training in the relevant anatomy. Supporting team members in our office have also trained with PTIFA and they employ measures associated with the safe and effective use of Botulinum Toxin (Botox or Dysport) which includes proper staging, selection of dosage and proper preparation and administration techniques to support Dr. Larson.  We provide patient-specific care with a thorough review of your dental and medical history. 

Botox treatments generally last 3-5 months, depending on how the individual person metabolizes it. Talk to your dentist about how often they recommend you receive Botox as part of your dental treatment plan. 

Yes. Avoid alcohol starting about one week before the procedure. We also recommend that you stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before treatment to reduce bruising.

Botox treatment should be avoided by:
• People with infection at the proposed injection site.
• People who have previously had an allergic reaction to Botulinum toxin type A injections.
• People with muscle problems or chronic diseases affecting the muscles.
• Children under the age of 18 years.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Try to contract the treated muscle areas periodically for up to four hours after treatment, by frowning and lifting eyebrows to allow the toxin to reach all of the treated muscle.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the injected areas and avoid having facials and massages for 48 hours to ensure that the treatment remains at the site of injection.
• Avoid vigorous exercise and alcohol-based products on the area treated for 48 hours.