Is Botox Injecting Itself Into Dentistry?

Wyatt Irwin & Jocelyn Marko

Abstract
Botox is a neurotoxin derived from the
bacterium clostridium botulinum. The toxin
constrains the release of acetylcholine, a
neurotransmitter responsible for muscle
contraction and glandular secretion. Botox
administration results in a reduction of
contraction properties of the injected muscle.
Since 2002, Botox has been utilized by the
beauty industry for the cosmetic treatment of
lines and wrinkles on the face. Botox has
recently started to transition into the field of
dentistry in the treatment of bruxism,
temporomandibular disorders, masseter
hypertrophy, and clenching. Dental cosmetic
procedures such as gummy smile, deep
nasolabial fold, and black triangles between
teeth also utilize Botox for treatment.