Botox treatment has allowed countless patients to address unsightly wrinkles in their skin as well as a variety of health problems caused by uncontrolled muscle movements like TMJ disorders, but there are many popular misconceptions about how the process works. Fortunately, a little education can go a long way towards helping a patient make an informed decision. Here’s a brief guide to a few common falsehoods about Botox as well as the facts about this remarkable treatment.
Falsehood #1: Botox Is Poisonous
Botox treatments work by administering a small amount of botulinum toxin to arrest the movements of a targeted muscle. Since this substance is a known cause of food poisoning, many people assume that Botox presents a significant risk to their overall health. However, the amounts used in this treatment are too small to produce any adverse effects, and complications arising from Botox are incredibly rare.
Falsehood #2: Botox Freezes Your Face
Many comedy movies and TV shows have portrayed people who have recently received Botox as having grotesquely doll-like faces that cannot show the full range of emotion. While these depictions can be quite funny, they are not true to life. Botox treatments will not significantly inhibit your ability to move your face or express emotion, and, except for its favorable effects, it will be virtually impossible to tell that you received the treatment at all.
Falsehood #3: Botox Is Permanent
While some people are under the impression that the effects of Botox are a long-term commitment, this is simply not true. The results of your Botox treatment can last for several months and leave no lingering after-effects in the treated muscles. However, this treatment can prevent the development of new wrinkles while it lasts. You can prolong the results of your Botox treatment in ways such as:
- Wearing sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding intense exercise that can make your body metabolize the botulinum toxin faster
- Getting touch-up treatments as needed
Don’t let a little misinformation stand in the way of you enjoying the benefits of Botox. Consulting with your dentist or oral surgeon can help you find out if this treatment can be right for you.
About the Practice
Dr. Shinwari is a board-certified oral surgeon who earned his degree at Boston University. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association, and the American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. His office in Dumfries offers oral surgical services like dental implants, tooth extractions, sedation dentistry, and Botox. To schedule your Botox consultation, contact his office online or dial (703) 574-4717.