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Why a Dentist Is the Best Choice for Botox
Most people associate Botox with a medspa — but dentists are among the most qualified providers available. Dr. Hartley has spent years studying the anatomy of the head, face, and jaw in greater depth than most other practitioners. That anatomical precision means more accurate placement, more predictable results, and a lower risk of complications.
- Dr. Hartley holds specialized university education in head and neck anatomy
- He and his team have completed extensive hands-on training at the Pacific Training Institute for Facial Aesthetics
- He reviews your full medical history and performs a complete exam before any treatment
- He is highly trained and experienced in providing precise facial injections
- He works in a sterile clinical setting using appropriate instruments and disposables
- He can address your teeth, smile, and facial aesthetic concerns in a single appointment
Conditions We Treat with Botox
Jaw Clenching & Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Do you wake up with a sore jaw, worn teeth, or tension headaches? Chronic clenching (bruxism) damages enamel and often intensifies under stress. Botox injected into the masseter — the large muscle that closes the jaw — reduces its force significantly. Most patients notice relief within two weeks. Results typically last 4–6 months, and many find each successive treatment becomes more effective as the muscle gradually reduces in bulk.
This is not a cure for bruxism, but it is one of the most effective ways to break the clenching cycle and protect your teeth from further damage while other strategies are in place.
TMJ Pain & Jaw Tension
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders cause jaw clicking, locking, facial pain, and headaches that radiate through the temples and neck. When night guards, physiotherapy, or anti-inflammatories haven’t resolved the issue, Botox offers a non-surgical alternative that directly relaxes the overactive muscles driving the tension. We target the masseter, temporalis, and — where appropriate — the pterygoid muscles to reduce chronic overactivation.
Gummy Smile Correction
A gummy smile occurs when the upper lip rises too high on smiling, exposing more gum tissue than you’d like. A small amount of Botox placed in the lip elevator muscles limits that upward movement, letting your smile show more tooth and less gum. The procedure takes under 10 minutes and produces visible results within days — no surgery, no recovery time.
Lip Flip
A lip flip uses Botox to relax the small muscles just above the upper lip, allowing it to gently roll outward for a fuller appearance — without adding volume. It’s subtle by design; the goal is to enhance your natural lip, not change its shape. Results last approximately 8–12 weeks.
A quick, low-downtime procedure
The injections themselves take 10–20 minutes. We use very fine needles, and most patients describe the sensation as minimal — a brief pinch. There is no downtime; you can return to normal activities the same day. We ask that you avoid lying flat for 4 hours after treatment and skip strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
Real, noticeable results
You’ll start noticing results in 3–7 days, with full effect at 2 weeks. We recommend a brief follow-up appointment at the 2-week mark to assess results and make any refinements.
Is Dental Botox Right for You?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Clench or grind your teeth, especially at night
- Experience chronic jaw tension, TMJ pain, or tension headaches that follow a jaw-grinding pattern
- Want to reduce gum visibility when smiling
- Are looking for a subtle lip enhancement without fillers
Botox is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for patients with certain neuromuscular conditions. Dr. Hartley will review your full medical history at your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does dental Botox last?
Therapeutic Botox for jaw clenching and TMJ typically lasts 4–6 months. Cosmetic applications (gummy smile correction, lip flip) last 3–4 months. Many patients find results extend slightly with each subsequent treatment as the targeted muscles reduce in size over time.
Does it hurt?
Most patients find the injections very tolerable — a brief pinch with fine-gauge needles. We can apply topical numbing cream for sensitive patients.
Is dental Botox covered by insurance?
Therapeutic Botox for bruxism or TMJ may be partially covered by some extended health benefit plans. We recommend checking with your insurer. Cosmetic treatments are not typically covered.
How much does it cost?
Cost depends on the number of units used and the areas treated. We’ll give you a clear, itemized quote at your consultation — no surprises.
Do I need to stop taking any medications beforehand?
Blood thinners and anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, aspirin) can increase bruising risk. Dr. Hartley will review your medications at consultation and advise accordingly.
To learn more about this service & to begin your journey, Book your next visit at Woodcreek Dental Care
