There are many factors which can affect the appearance of your face and you will be pleased to know it may be that your dentist Brentwood is able to address most of these issues. Your dentist can improve the appearance of your teeth and smile, and they can also improve the appearance of your skin. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your skin then you need to speak to your dental practice and find out about cosmetic treatments and procedures that are available for you.
One of the most common factors that can affect the aesthetics of your skin is the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Speak to your dentist about Botox for addressing lines and wrinkles to improve or enhance the appearance of your skin.
What causes lines and wrinkles?
Lines and wrinkles are creases and folds on the outer layer of the skin known as the epidermis. There are four main reasons for developing lines and wrinkles. Firstly, it is a natural part of the ageing process which everyone goes through. Collagen and elastic fibres break down over time and become less stretchy, so that your skin is unable to bounce back as it used to in your younger years. Repeated facial expressions are another cause for lines and wrinkles, which is why they are predominantly on the forehead, around the eyes, between the eyebrows and around the mouth. Another major cause of lines and wrinkles is exposure to UV light from the sun and lifestyle factors such as smoking can also result in premature ageing of the skin and cause lines and wrinkles.
How does Botox work?
Botox was first approved for cosmetic use in 2002. Botox is one of the most popular brands of botulinum toxin, a chemical derived from clostridium bacteria, which is a toxin that has been repurposed so that it does not cause harm to your skin. Instead it helps to improve the appearance of your skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Botox works by preventing the release of acetylcholine which is a neurotransmitter that helps your muscles contract. When injected directly into the muscles of concern, for example those around your forehead, eyes and mouth, Botox stops acetylcholine transmission which means that you cannot contract these muscles, so the skin directly above these muscles does not wrinkle or crease anymore. Botox is tolerated very well, side effects include minor bruising and temporary swelling, however this should subside very quickly. The procedure itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your face will be cleaned and the Botox will be injected into the areas of concern. This may be one specific area on your face or it may be on multiple areas. You may have a topical anaesthetic cream applied to your face 20 to 30 minutes before the injections and you will simply feel a slight pinching sensation of the injection needle. The effects last approximately 3 to 4 months after which it is safe for you to repeat the procedure. Botox is also used for other medical purposes so speak to your dentist to find out more.
What is the best age for Botox?
Botox is suitable for patients over the age of 18. When used at regular intervals such as every 3 to 4 months Botox has preventive effects. This means that if it is used before lines and wrinkles present themselves then it is unlikely that they will develop in the future. Patients in their 30s who suffer from fine lines can undergo Botox to smooth out these lines and prevent the formation of deeper wrinkles in the future. If you are affected by deep lines and wrinkles then regular and repeated use of Botox can help soften those lines over time. How this works is that if movement in a certain area of the face is prevented or inhibited for long enough then the skin repairs itself by building collagen, this will eventually iron out the lines and wrinkles for a younger and more youthful appearance. Botox is most commonly sought after by female patients between the ages of 30 and 60. There is no upper age limit so you can continue to maintain a youthful appearance for as long as you wish. After a while you will find that you do not have to repeat the procedure as often, rather you can maintain a smooth and even appearance. Botox is not suitable for pregnant women or those who are nursing. It is not suitable for patients who suffer from neuromuscular disorders or those suffering from a skin infection. You can speak to your dentist to find out if and how often Botox is suitable for you.