Uses for Dermal Fillers in Aesthetic Dentistry
As we age, the skin loses elasticity, volume and structural support which leads to the formation of deep lines, grooves and folds – especially around the mouth. In addition to this, our lips, which are perhaps the most prominent aesthetic feature of our face, begin to lose volume and become thinner and less well defined. Naso-labial and Marionette lines are formed by skin folds running between the nose, mouth and chin. These furrows are among the first to appear on the aging face, and together with lip enhancement, are the primary areas treated by Dermal Fillers to improve facial aesthetics.
Dermal Fillers are a temporary treatment method, that provide immediate results for eliminating these facial lines. They consist of a substance that naturally occurs in our bodies and is therefore broken down by natural means and is hypo-allergenic.
Realising that the result of aesthetic dentistry are limited by the condition of the facial tissues surrounding the mouth means that Dermal Filler treatment is the logical next step for Cosmetic Dentists wishing to frame their artistry. Dentists must use aesthetic principles to harmonise the dentition; muscles of mastication; lips, cheeks and nose – undergoing Dermal Filler courses will allow a truly holistic approach to facial aesthetic enhancement.
Dermal Filler
Dental dermal fillers are injectable, gel-like substances—commonly hyaluronic acid—used by dentists to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial features like lips, cheeks, and the jawline. They are used in cosmetic dentistry to complement smiles by reducing marionette lines, improving lip symmetry, and correcting high lip lines.
Botox
Botox is a trade name for botulinum toxin, which comes in the form of a purified protein. The mechanism of action for Botox is really quite simple. Botox is injected into the facial muscles but really doesn’t affect the muscle at all. Botulinum toxin affects and blocks the transmitters between the motor nerves that innervate the muscle. There is no loss of sensory feeling in the muscles. Once the motor nerve endings are interrupted, the muscle cannot contract. When that muscle does not contract, the dynamic motion that causes wrinkles in the skin will stop. The skin then starts to smooth out, and in approximately three to ten days after treatment, the skin above those muscles becomes nice and smooth. The effects of Botox last for approximately three to four months, at which time the patient needs retreatment.
