What is botulinum toxin treatment?
Botulinum toxin is a prescription medicine. Very small amounts are injected into a chosen muscle, which then relaxes for a few months.
What can it be used for?
At Clover Dental, Dr Joe Lim offers botulinum toxin treatment for the face. He will assess whether it is suitable for you and explain the treatment options.
Who should not have it?
Tell your dentist about your health and any medicines you take. This treatment is not given:
- during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- to people with some nerve and muscle conditions, such as myasthenia gravis
- where there is an infection at the injection site
- to people allergic to any of its ingredients
What happens at the appointment?
- Your dentist asks about your health and medicines, examines your face, and asks what you would like to change.
- They explain the options, along with the risks and the cost. You can take time to decide.
- If you go ahead, a few small injections are given with a fine needle.
- You can usually go back to your day straight away. For the rest of the day, avoid rubbing the area, lying flat for a few hours, and hard exercise, or follow the advice you are given.
- A follow-up visit about two weeks later checks the result.
When does it work, and how long does it last?
It usually starts to work after a few days and reaches its full effect in about two weeks. The effect then wears off slowly, usually over three to four months, and the treatment can be repeated if you wish. How well it works and how long it lasts vary from person to person.
What are the side effects?
Most are mild and pass on their own:
- redness, swelling or a small bruise where the needle went in
- a headache
Less often, a nearby muscle is weakened too, for example a heavy eyebrow or an uneven smile, and this wears off over a few weeks.
If you have difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing after treatment, go to a hospital emergency department (A&E) or call 995.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the area treated and the amount needed. Your dentist tells you the cost before starting.
How do I book?
WhatsApp or call the clinic nearest you: Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Ang Mo Kio (Central) or Clementi. Each clinic’s numbers are on our clinics page, or you can send a booking request. To see Dr Joe Lim for this treatment, mention it when you get in touch.