Botox has long been championed as an excellent cosmetic treatment to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face, in turn improving your smile. However, it also has medical uses, such as treating TMJ and bruxism.
If you’re interested in Botox, you probably have a lot of questions. Read on in this blog from Harmony Dentistry to know what you should expect your first time getting Botox.
How Do I Prepare for My Appointment?
A consultation is important before we can start administering Botox to your face because we need to review your medical history, discuss your goals, and know what products you use. We’ll explain the procedure to you ahead of time so you know what to expect.
However, before receiving the injections, there are some things you will need to stop using about a week before your appointment. You should not drink wine, take anti-inflammatory pain medication, and you will need to avoid foods like garlic.
Other supplements that need to be avoided include Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba, St. John’s Wort, Ginseng, and fish oil. These things can contribute to bruising and swelling. You should also show up with a freshly cleansed face that is free of any skin products or makeup.
Is It Painful?
While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, most people do not find Botox injections to be painful. We use micro-needles that are very tiny and are barely felt. It may feel like a very quick sting and then it’s over. However, we can also numb your face by applying a topical numbing cream or by icing the face before we inject.
How Long Does Botox Last?
Botox is a temporary procedure that, on average, lasts for about 3 to 5 months. However, each person metabolizes the neurotoxin at different rates and it also depends on lifestyle factors. Some people may metabolize Botox within 2 months, while it can last for 6 months in others.
You will notice when it is starting to wear off because you will start to notice fine lines trying to come back. This is a sign that it’s time for a touch-up. If you engage in strenuous exercise, this can break down the neurotoxin quicker.
Keep in mind that it takes up to 2 weeks to see the full effects of Botox and you can get re-injected for touch-ups every 3 months or as needed.
Botox Aftercare
Thankfully, there aren’t a whole lot of aftercare requirements. After you receive Botox, you might not notice much except for tiny little bumps that will go away within a half hour. The skin-smoothing effects can be seen within 5 days and the full effects can be seen within 2 weeks.
After getting Botox injected, you should avoid touching or massaging your face and should not lay down for at least 4 hours to avoid spreading the neurotoxic to other areas of the face. Avoid sweating for 24 hours and stay out of the sun because this can increase your risk of bruising.
You should not exercise for at least 24 hours. You should continue to avoid taking medications like aspirin and ibuprofen because they are blood thinners that can cause bruising.
Schedule Your Botox Consultation Today!
Whether you want to improve the appearance of your smile or get relief from painful symptoms of TMD, Botox is a versatile and effective temporary treatment. If you’re wondering if Botox is right for you and your goals, contact us at Harmony Dentistry today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jessica Barton.