Botulinum toxin is carefully administered into the muscle. Botulinum toxin blocks the nerve impulses to the muscles that have been injected. This reduces the activity of the muscles and therefore relaxes it.
The time taken to notice effects varies from person to person. The effects can be noticed from as early as 2-3 days; full effects take up to 2-3 weeks following treatment. We review the results at this point to ensure you are happy with the results. One session is enough to notice a difference. We may however choose to have a second session at this stage if you desire more of an effect.
You can initially expect full effects to last around 3-4 months after which the effects slowly fade. The results have known to last much longer the more treatments you have. When used over a period of time it can prevent the act of grinding/clenching of the teeth altogether, at which point we may decide you no longer need the treatment.
The treatment is virtually pain-free. If any discomfort is experienced it is usually minimal and short–lived. There is therefore no need for local anaesthesia.
Millions of people worldwide have had these injections and the safety of the product is well established. Botulinum toxin has safely been used since as early as 1980, for many medical conditions, such as Cerebral palsy; Focal spasticity associated with stroke; Blepharospasm; Hemifacial spasm.
Although rare and uncommon, a few side effects have been known to occur. You may experience mild bruising, numbness, or tenderness at the injection site.