When you think about BOTOX, one of the first things that comes to mind is probably its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is certainly effective at doing so! However, BOTOX does not always get all the credit it deserves. In fact, it has many applications that go far beyond aesthetics. What are some of its potential uses that have nothing to do with treating wrinkles? This blog post lists several.
Migraine Treatment
In 2010, BOTOX received FDA approval as a treatment for chronic migraines. It may help to reduce migraine triggers by limiting movements of the facial muscles, while some experts believe its benefits are due to a placebo effect. Either way, the fact remains that BOTOX patients consistently report fewer migraines.
Reducing Sweating
Excessive sweating can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Fortunately, BOTOX is often an effective treatment for this condition. It can block the nerve signals that cause sweating. While it is often used for the underarms, it may also be helpful for reducing sweating in the hands and feet.
Calming an Overactive Bladder
BOTOX can be very helpful for individuals with an overactive bladder. In fact, one study found that 70% of women on BOTOX reported just three leaks a day, compared to the five leaks a day that they reported at the beginning of the study.
Treating Depression
Research into BOTOX as a treatment for depression is still in its early stages, but one small study found that about half of the participants who received BOTOX reported a reduction in their depression symptoms. Some people believe this difference may be due to the facial feedback hypothesis, which states that facial expressions can affect mood. Because BOTOX can limit certain expressions, it might affect emotional health.
Reducing Severe Neck Spasms
Even before BOTOX was approved as a wrinkle treatment, the FDA approved it for use as a treatment for cervical dystonia, a condition that is characterized by severe neck pain and an abnormal head position.
Treating TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder (TMD) affects the jaw joints. It is associated with facial pain and many other symptoms. BOTOX injections can help to relax the facial muscles and can significantly reduce TMD symptoms.
Preventing an Abnormal Heartbeat
There is preliminary evidence to indicate that BOTOX might help to prevent postoperative atrial fibrillation, which is an abnormal heartbeat that sometimes arises after open heart surgery. Much more research is necessary before this becomes a common use of BOTOX.
BOTOX is amazing! Whether you use it to smooth out your skin or improve your health, you can appreciate it for its many applications.
Meet the Practice
At Bell Dental in Louisville, we are proud to offer BOTOX as a means to help our patients reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. We take great care to make the results as beautiful and natural-looking as possible. If you would like to learn more about this treatment and find out whether you are a candidate for it, contact our office at 502-749-2355.