Botox and dermal fillers are injectable treatments that improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and add volume and contour areas of the face. Both treatments target dynamic wrinkles, which are wrinkles that occur due to the contraction of facial muscles.
Botox
Botox is a purified form of botulinum toxin type A. When injected into targeted muscles, the botulinum toxin blocks the nerves from communicating with the muscles. This temporarily paralyzes the muscles, preventing them from contracting. As a result, the skin above the muscle stays smooth and crease-free.
Botox injections are most commonly used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The treatment is especially effective for forehead lines, frown lines between the eyebrows, and crow’s feet. The effects of Botox are temporary, so patients will need to return for repeat injections.
Botox is FDA-approved to treat the following conditions:
- Crow’s feet
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines
What Can I Expect During Botox Injections?
You can get your Botox injections done in less than 20 minutes.
The initial injection may cause some pain, but the discomfort is barely noticeable. You may require 3–10 injections, depending on the area being treated.
You can resume your regular day immediately after your Botox procedure. However, you should wait at least two hours before engaging in any vigorous exercise. Within 24 hours of your injection, you should start to see a difference in how you look, and the effects may persist for up to four months.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers work by adding volume to areas of the face that have thinned due to age or other factors. Fillers can also be used to fill in deep creases, such as nasolabial folds. Typically, fillers are injected into the dermis, which makes them an excellent option for adding volume to lips.
Fillers can be used to:
- Improve the appearance of mild to severe wrinkles and folds
- Fill in sunken areas of the face
- Plump thin lips
- Improve the appearance of scars
- Improve volume in the cheeks
What Can I Expect During Filler Injections?
Your cosmetic dentist will likely apply a numbing agent to your gums and soft tissues before administering your fillers. This will help minimize any discomfort you may feel during your procedure. The numbing agent may be in the form of a gel, cream, or nasal spray. Then, your dentist will inject the filler into your gums. Some fillers are self-adhesive, so your dentist will smooth the filler into your gums.
Are Botox and Dermal Fillers safe?
Both Botox and dermal fillers are safe and effective. Botox and dermal fillers are non-surgical procedures that don’t require anesthesia. Dermal fillers and Botox are regulated by the FDA. It is standard practice for both products to be used only on adult patients who are in good overall health.
To find out more about the dental services offered at Harbor Dental, call (970) 377-2456 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit Dentist Fort Collins CO at 2726 Illinois Dr. #101, Fort Collins, CO 80525.