Facial Esthetics
Botox® for TMJ relief & facial esthetics
Botox® has proven to be highly effective in dentistry and is used for several treatments beyond reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles.
One common use is the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD/TMJ). Botox helps relieve pain by relaxing overactive or inflamed jaw muscles caused by conditions such as bruxism (teeth clenching or grinding) and muscle hyperactivity. Before Botox became a treatment option, many patients relied primarily on anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers. When these approaches are ineffective, Botox may provide significant relief.
In some cases, a custom mouthguard may also be recommended in conjunction with Botox treatment. The mouthguard helps reduce stress on the jaw caused by clenching and grinding while also protecting tooth enamel from excessive wear.
Botox can also be used to address a "gummy smile," a condition in which excessive gum tissue is visible when smiling. By relaxing the muscles that elevate the upper lip, Botox can lower the smile line and create a more balanced appearance. While the results are temporary, Botox offers a less invasive alternative to crown lengthening or gingival surgery.
Additionally, muscle deterioration caused by significant tooth loss can sometimes make dentures difficult to fit comfortably. Botox has been shown to assist with muscle retraining, helping improve denture fit and function for some patients.
Contact Stines Family Dentistry to learn more about Botox and whether it may be right for you.
Juvederm XC® Dermal Fillers
As we age, our skin naturally loses moisture, elasticity, and volume, leading to wrinkles, folds, and facial lines. While many creams and moisturizers can help improve skin hydration, they often cannot address deeper wrinkles and volume loss.
Stines Family Dentistry offers Juvederm XC®, a nonsurgical dermal filler designed to smooth facial lines and wrinkles while restoring a more youthful, natural appearance. Results can last for up to one year.
Juvederm XC is a smooth filler gel that adds volume beneath the skin's surface. It is injected into facial tissue where wrinkles and folds are present to help restore lost volume and soften facial lines. The gel is made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in the skin. As HA levels decrease with age, the skin becomes more susceptible to wrinkles, folds, and volume loss. Juvederm XC utilizes proprietary HYLACROSS® technology to create a smooth, natural-looking result.
One of the most common uses for Juvederm XC is treating "smile lines," also known as nasolabial folds—the creases that extend from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. The treatment can be used on a variety of skin types and is typically completed during a brief office visit. For optimal long-term results, periodic follow-up treatments may be recommended.
If you are interested in learning more about Juvederm XC, call Stines Family Dentistry at (517) 552-9210 to schedule a consultation.