3 Surprising Uses for Botox

Botox® is a minimally invasive treatment in which small amounts of neurotoxin are injected into muscle areas for less movement. While a bit of paralysis may not sound helpful or exciting, Botox can reduce everything from fine lines to migraines. 

Board-certified neurologist Dr. Farhad Elyaderani and his team offer Botox injections for cosmetic and neurological benefits at their New Rochelle and Yonkers, New York, offices. 

Take a few moments to learn about three more Botox uses that may surprise you.

1. Reduced teeth grinding (bruxism)

Up to one-third of adults grind their teeth to some degree. When you grind your teeth regularly, a condition known as bruxism, you can experience jaw pain, headaches, and even tooth fractures. 

Botox can reduce teeth grinding by limiting the movement of the jaw muscles involved with chewing. Within 1-14 days, you should have less tension in those muscles, leading to fewer teeth-grinding issues. These benefits may last for 3-6 months.

2. Fewer spasms after a stroke

Upper limb spasms are common after a stroke, affecting nearly one in three people who have one. They result from disrupted signals between the brain and muscles, and shaking or trembling can make daily activities difficult while fueling pain and deformity.

Once injected into the treatment area, Botox temporarily paralyzes muscles behind your stroke-related spasms. This can make spastic movements less likely, less frequent, or less intense. Results from Botox for post-stroke spasms typically last for 3-4 months.

3. An improved smile

Cosmetic Botox treatments get a lot of attention for reducing forehead lines, but they can also improve your smile. By limiting muscle movement near your mouth, Botox can soften laugh lines, marionette lines, and smoker’s lines. Botox can also enhance a “gummy smile” by easing the muscles that lift your upper lip.

Results from Botox for a better smile usually last 3-6 months. Meanwhile, you can have other face complaints – such as frown lines and crow’s feet – reduced from the same treatment session.

What to expect during Botox treatment

Botox injections typically take only minutes to provide. You may experience a pinching sensation like a bee sting or shot when the tiny needle enters your skin. While many people tolerate the sensation well, you can request a topical numbing agent or ice pack beforehand for added comfort.

Side effects, such as redness and swelling, tend to be mild, temporary, and resolve independently. After Botox injections, most people can return to their usual daily activities.

To learn more about Botox's benefits or to schedule your treatment, call Dr. Farhad Elyaderani or request an appointment online today. We also offer Dysport®, which can help some people faster than Botox.