General & Family Dentistry
What Is Botox (Facial Esthetics)?
At West Seattle Smile Co., our Botox treatments use a purified form of botulinum toxin, expertly administered by our skilled team. Because dentists have deep training in facial anatomy, muscles, and nerves, we are uniquely suited to deliver precise, safe injections in delicate areas of the face. Whether you're looking to reduce wrinkles, soften a “gummy” smile, or relieve tension in your jaw, Botox offers a versatile solution that enhances both appearance and comfort.
Why Choose Botox at a Dental Office?
Getting Botox from your dentist has several advantages. Our deep understanding of facial structures — particularly how muscles relate to your teeth, gums, and jaw — allows us to target treatment more precisely than many other providers. This precision gives you better results, with potentially less product and a more natural outcome. Beyond cosmetics, we use Botox to address oral‑health related issues such as jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism), and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) tension. These therapeutic applications help protect your teeth, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life.
How We Use Botox at West Seattle Smile Co.
Here’s how Botox can help you, both cosmetically and functionally:
- Jaw Tension & TMJ Relief: Tension in the masseter and temporalis muscles can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and discomfort. Botox injections relax these muscles, which can reduce pain, improve function, and protect teeth from stress.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): By reducing hyperactivity in the jaw muscles, Botox helps ease teeth grinding, minimizing tooth wear and reducing muscle fatigue.
- Gummy Smile Correction: If you feel your upper lip shows too much gum when you smile, Botox can relax the muscles that elevate your lip, helping you achieve a more balanced, confident smile.
- Cosmetic Wrinkles: Botox smooths fine lines and wrinkles in areas like the forehead, “frown lines,” and around the eyes. The effect is subtle and natural, helping you look refreshed without losing expression.
What to Expect During Treatment
Consultation & Assessment
We’ll begin with a full facial and dental evaluation, discuss your goals, and review your medical history to ensure Botox is right for you.
Customized Treatment Plan
Based on your needs, we'll design a plan — whether it’s for aesthetics, function, or both.
Treatment Session
Using very fine needles, we’ll administer injections into precise muscle locations. Most sessions take just 10–20 minutes, with minimal discomfort.
Post‑Treatment & Recovery
You can typically resume your regular activities immediately. Some mild bruising may appear, but downtime is minimal.
Results & Follow-Up
You’ll usually begin to see results within a few days, with full effect in around one to two weeks. Effects generally last about 3–4 months.
Maintenance
We’ll work with you to plan follow-up sessions so you can sustain your results and adjust treatment as needed.
Is Botox Right for You?
Botox is a great choice if you:
- Want to reduce facial wrinkles without surgery
- Suffer from jaw pain, tension, or TMJ symptoms
- Grind or clench your teeth (bruxism)
- Are self-conscious about a gummy smile
If you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant, or have allergies, we’ll carefully discuss whether Botox is appropriate for you during your consultation.
Book Your Botox Consultation
If you’re curious about how facial esthetics with Botox can help you feel more confident — or relieve jaw tension — let’s talk. Contact us at West Seattle Smile Co. to book a personalized consultation. We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions, and create a treatment plan that’s right for you.