European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

REVIEW ARTICLE: BOTOX IN DENTISTRY

*Dr. Sajna K. A. BDS, Dr. Dhanya John MDS, Dr. Jiss Mary G. MDS and Dr. Giju George Baby MDS

ABSTRACT

Background: Botulinum toxin [Botox] has been known to mankind for ages but has not been gaining enough popularity lately. It has been used in the medical field primarily for its cosmetic treatment of lines and wrinkles on face and can be used as an alternative treatment modality working through chemo denervation methodology in several medical and dental conditions. The use of Botox is a minimal invasive technique of treatment. The new prototype is the intramuscular injection of Botulinum toxin type A (BOTOX-A) into the affected muscles. It is a macromolecule produced by Clostridium botulinum. The toxin inhibits the release of acetylcholine (ACh), and results in inhibition of muscle contraction. Aim: This article explains the fundamentals of Botox and its uses in dental medicine. Conclusion: This article gives an understanding into the applications, limitations and different downsides of Botox separated from its usual utilization. Clinical significance: Have shown favorable results in the management of muscle-generated dental diseases like extra capsular myogenic temporomandibular disorders, trismus, bruxism, clenching, masseter hypertrophy, headaches accompanying these conditions and used to treat functional or esthetic dental conditions like deep nasolabial folds, radial lip lines, high lip line and black triangles between teeth.

Keywords: Botox, Botulinum toxin, Muscular disease, clostridium botulinum, bruxism, trismus.