FAQs

Botulinum toxin, trade name BOTOX®, is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected in small, controlled doses, BOTOX can temporarily paralyze or relax targeted muscles, nerves, and glands. Ellerslie Dental Clinic uses BOTOX to treat TMJ disorder, Bruxism, and facial pain.

Unlike many other cosmetic treatments, it is non-surgical. It can target specific facial muscles and areas, allowing for a highly precise treatment to address specific cosmetic or therapeutic concerns. BOTOX injections are generally well-tolerated and give quick results.

BOTOX is a neurotoxin that temporarily blocks communication between nerves and muscles. When injected, BOTOX travels to the targeted muscle and binds to the nerve endings that control muscle movement. It prevents the nerve signals from reaching the muscles, effectively paralyzing or relaxing them.

BOTOX typically takes a few days to start working, and the full effects of the treatment may not be noticeable for up to two weeks after the injections. However, the timing of results can vary depending on several factors, including your metabolism and the location and amount of BOTOX injected.

The frequency of BOTOX injections depends on your specific cosmetic or therapeutic needs. In general, the effects of BOTOX typically last for 3-6 months, at which point the injections can be repeated if desired. However, waiting at least three months between successive BOTOX injections would be best.

BOTOX and dermal fillers are injectable treatments for facial rejuvenation, but they work differently. Botox targets muscle activity to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, while dermal fillers add volume to plump and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines.

Sedation dentistry uses sedative medications to help patients relax and remain calm during dental procedures. Sedation dentistry can help patients feel more comfortable and relaxed during dental procedures and make it easier for dentists to provide high-quality care. The level of sedation can vary from mild to deep, depending on the patient's needs.

Dental anxiety is a common condition that affects people of all ages. The causes of dental anxiety can be complex and vary from person to person. Some common causes include fear of pain or discomfort, previous negative experiences with dental procedures, fear of needles or dental instruments, or a general feeling of anxiety or stress related to the dental setting.

Depending on the level of anxiety or complexity of the procedure, we use four types of sedation at Ellerslie Dental Clinic.

• Oral sedation
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
• Intravenous (IV) sedation
• General anesthesia

The recovery period after sedation in dentistry can vary greatly depending on the type of sedation used and your response to the medication. Oral sedation and nitrous oxide typically have a short recovery period, and you may be able to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. IV sedation and general anesthesia can have a much more extended recovery period.

Discuss any medical conditions or medications you take with our dentist to determine if sedation is safe. You should arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you to and from your appointment, as you may still feel tired or disoriented after the procedure. Always follow our dentist's instructions for fasting before the procedure.

Dermal fillers are injectable materials that add volume and fullness to different face areas and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. They are commonly used to enhance facial features, such as the cheeks and lips, and to reduce the appearance of age-related fine lines and wrinkles.

Dermal fillers can treat various cosmetic issues in different facial areas, including lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds, under-eye area, jawline, temple area, and Marionette lines. It is crucial to note that the results of dermal fillers are temporary and will eventually fade over time.

Fillers are typically administered through injection using a small needle or cannula. The exact injection technique will depend on the area and the type of filler being used. After the injection, the site may be massaged to ensure an evenly distributed fill.

In general, most fillers are temporary and will gradually be absorbed by the body over time. The filler's effects can last a few months to a few years. Hyaluronic acid filler, the most used filler, typically lasts between six and eighteen months.

Most patients will start to see the effects of the filler immediately following the injection, although it may take several days or weeks for the full results to become apparent.

Most side effects of fillers are mild and temporary and can be managed easily with proper care and follow-up. Some common side effects include-

Swelling, bruising, or redness

Itching, tenderness

Small bumps under the skin

In some cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as allergic reactions, nerve damage, or vascular occlusion, but these are very rare complications.