Our dental team at Penticton Dental is pleased to offer Botox injections.
What is Botox?
This widely recognized brand of neuromodulating agents contains Botulinum Toxin, a purified protein with therapeutic applications.
The Botox process involves injecting purified bacteria into the areas of concern to freeze the muscle at the injection point. Botox can be injected into the facial muscles, where it releases neurotoxins to prevent the muscles from contracting and help them to relax.
Dr. Katrina Saina at Penticton Dental is trained in both upper and lower face Botox treatments.
Botox Treatment: What To Expect
Before Treatment
We will address any questions and concerns you have prior to your treatment to ensure your desired results are understood.
Some have described the injections as feeling similar to a mild pinch, similar to a bug bite. A very fine needle is used to direct the injection into the muscle underneath the skin to help prevent bruising, swelling, or pain.
After Treatment
Following your treatment, it is important to avoid certain activities for the first several hours. You must not bend your head or lay down for a sustained period of time.
To avoid moving the Botox and affecting other muscles, do not rub or touch the treatment area. In rare cases, some people report experiencing headaches after receiving a Botox injection.
Botox FAQs
- How long does a Botox treatment take, and what is involved?
A Botox treatment typically takes 15 to 25 minutes and doesn't require anesthesia. A fine needle will be used to inject Botox into specific muscles, and topical anesthesia may be used to numb the area.
- Is Botox safe?
Our authorized prescribers are familiar with the relevant anatomy. They will use measures associated with the safe and effective use of BOTOX. This includes proper storage, selection of the correct dose, and proper administration techniques. Our clinicians provide patient-specific care. For your safety, we may ask about any alterations to the anatomy such as previous surgical procedures.
- How long does a Botox treatment last?
Generally, Botox treatments last 3 to 5 months, depending on how it's metabolized by the individual person.
- What is included with the first consultation?
At your first consultation, your dentist will perform a comprehensive facial and/or dental assessment and recommend the optimal treatments to help achieve your goals. If they determine that Botox is right for you, your treatment appointment will be scheduled.
- Is there anything I should do to prepare for treatment?
Yes. Starting about one week prior to the procedure, avoid alcohol. We also recommend that you stop taking anti-inflammatory medications and aspirin two weeks before treatment to reduce bruising.
- What are the risks associated with Botox?
While side effects of Botox are rare, they are usually mild and transient if they do occur. Side effects can include:
- Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site
- Crooked smile or drooling
- Eye dryness or excessive tearing
- Droopy eyelid or eyebrows
- Headache or flu-like symptoms
If you do experience more than mild side effects that last hours to weeks after receiving Botox, call us immediately.
- Who should avoid Botox treatment?
Botox treatment should be avoided by:
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- People with muscle problems or chronic diseases affecting the muscles.
- People who have previously had an allergic reaction to Botulinum toxin type A injections.
- Children under the age of 18 years.
- What are the recommendations for aftercare?
- Avoid vigorous exercise and alcohol-based products on the area treated for 48 hours.
- Try to contract the treated muscle areas periodically for up to four hours after treatment, by frowning and lifting your 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.